Linking urban spatial configuration, traffic, air pollution, and noise exposure: a scoping review towards a DPSIR framework

The objective of this paper is to establish a conceptual framework defining the relationship between traffic, noise, spatial conditions, and pollution (PM 2.5 , PM 10 , O 3 , NO x ) to move towards coping strategies and assessments of those strategies. A literature review is undertaken ( n = 51) through the reading of different studies that combine pollution and noise to some extent. Different sources, approaches for modeling, and measurement are discussed, including the development of indexes that combine these measurements. The usage of these stressors together is discussed regarding effects on health and how they can be used for urban diagnosis and risk assessment. Mitigation strategies are also assessed, including nature-based solutions (NBS) as well as transportation shifts that are key for reducing emissions of noise and pollution in cities. The relationship between noise and pollution is very coincidental, and they occur in a tangible way on a very small scale close to the source of the pollution, specifically traffic. However, the literature shows that urban configuration heavily shapes this situation. A DPSIR framework is developed that relates the phenomena. Next steps in research include a methodology for diagnosing urban spaces and exploring whether noise spectral analysis could have a relationship with air quality.