Finding from new study from the University of Chicago:, “Noise, Cognitive Function, and Worker Productivity”:

As the developing world continues to become more urban and industrial, noise pollution is destined to spread even further. Between 2001 and 2015, the number of cars per person in India tripled, and this growth shows no signs of slowing (Government of India 2017). While this should be celebrated as a sign of progress, it will undoubtedly bring with it even more noise pollution. The results in this paper suggest this is a policy problem that warrants both further research and policy makers’ attention. This paper presents evidence that an increase of 10 dB inhibits cognitive function and that this results in a decrease in productivity of approximately 5%.