An Assessment of Noise Level Mapping in Plateau State University Bokkos.

Noise pollution is an increasing environmental issue impacting urban areas, especially educational institutions where the academic performance, health, and well-being of individuals can be affected significantly. This study identified the main sources of noise, measured noise levels, and mapped the spatial distribution of noise pollution within Plateau State University, Bokkos, Nigeria. Using geo-mapping software and sound level meter, a total of 15 monitoring locations within the University were selected based on the land use. Three readings obtained at an interval of one hour; in the morning, at noon and in the evening for a period of one week were recorded. ArcGIS 10.5 was used to perform inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) Interpolation of the Spatial distribution of noise level in the study area. Findings were compared with the World Health Organization and the National Environmental Regulatory agency standard for noise levels. Results showed that students and traffic constitute the major sources of noise in the study environment. High noise levels were recorded at all the selected points, especially the classroom areas where the level is above the standard limit of 50 dB for educational area. The study recommends that in order to manage and control noise pollution, the University should reassign incompatible land uses, build sound proof walls, plant trees, within and around the Campus. In such ways, noise pollution would be minimized, this will hinder the interference of noise with academic activities within the Campus.