PROJECTS
Funding
European
Duration
-
Status
Complete
Geo-spatial type
Other
Project website
Project Acronym
DECIBELL LIFE07 ENV/F/000176
STRIA Roadmaps
Transport mode
Transport policies
Environmental/Emissions aspects
Transport sectors
Passenger transport,
Freight transport
Overview
Background & Policy context
In 2006, a Commission Decision 2006/66/EC was adopted setting out the technical specifications for inter-operability relating to the “rolling stock-noise” of the trans-European conventional rail system. This decision aimed to reduce noise due to rail traffic. In 2007, the Commission furthermore launched a communication campaign entitled “Rail noise abatement measures addressing the existing fleet”.
Currently, some 600 000 freight cars run night and day through Europe. Rolling noise is currently measured by railway operators or regional authorities in those freight corridors most subject to noise nuisances.
Objectives
The main objectives of the DECIBELL project are to:
- Conduct a technical assessment by 2012 of an innovative substitute brakeshoe. This assessment is to be carried out by the International Union of Railways (UIC);
- Demonstrate the safety and economic performance, as well as the noise reduction effectiveness, of the brake substitute by equipping a fleet of some 100 freight cars.
- Reduce noise by a factor of 2 to 4 compared with current levels; and
- Decrease the carbon footprint of Europe’s freight sector by supporting a shift from road to rail traffic.
The project will result in the creation of rolling noise maps for each Member State.
Funding
Parent Programmes
Institution Type
Public institution
Institution Name
European Union
Type of funding
Public (EU)
Partners
Lead Organisation
EU Contribution
€0
Partner Organisations
EU Contribution
€0