The IOA’s old Environmental Noise Group is now known as the Environmental Sound Group, as discussed in Graham Parry’s article in the November/December 2021 issue of Acoustic Bulletin on pages 63-65. The change in name refl ects a widening of the group’s remit to include positive aspects of environmental sound and soundscapes. As chair of the Environmental Sound Group, I see this as an opportunity to reinvigorate the group, and expand our activities into this important area. To help the Committee understand the issues and steer the group in the right direction I would like to invite IOA members with experience and enthusiasm for soundscape assessment to join the committee. Please send details of how you can help to me by 25 February 2022, and the committee will review the nominations. Email: SteveMitchellEnvironmental.co.uk (Steve[at]MitchellEnvironmental[dot]co[dot]uk)

The Environmental Sound Group comprises members of the Institute of Acoustics with a particular interest in assessment and control of environmental noise and vibration. The aim of the group is to provide a forum for members to exchange information and discuss developments within this general field of interest including noise and vibration control, prediction methods and the effect on receptors (not just people). 

The ESG committee is elected, but is controlled to ensure a broad range of representation, including Environmental Health Practitioners, Consultants, Education and Governmental Organisations. It organises events of interest to the membership, issues regular communications and represent members’ interests within the IOA and on relevant external bodies. It also briefs Council on related consultation documents.