Process sectors’ new jobs opportunity: acoustics
2 May 2025
Workplace safety experts are urging graduates interested in environmental issues to consider a career in acoustics.
The Association of Noise Consultants says that industrial and other noise now ranks as a major public health issue.
But, says chair Louise Beamish, its role has been largely overlooked despite its widespread impact.
“Managing noise is an important, but often under-considered option, for the future well-being of society,” she added.
The World Health Organisation’s Environmental Noise Guidelines 2018 state that exposure to noise presents a ‘significant’ health risk to the population of Western Europe, one second only to poor air quality.
Increasing recognition of health implications associated with noise was shaping the development of acoustics consultancy, said Beamish.
“STEM graduates with a talent for problem-solving, attention to detail and natural curiosity are excellent candidates for a career in the sector.”
Within the process sectors, noise issues are widespread, while acoustics also offers opportunities in water and environmental work to mitigate the critical impact of noise on wildlife and natural spaces.
Heulwen Peters, chair of the association’s sustainability committee, said: “The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Frontiers’ report published in 2022 identified three emerging issues of environmental concern, with the first being noise.
“Today’s acousticians are developing the tools and solutions to these problems, but tomorrow’s acousticians will be instrumental in making the future inherently better for humans and wildlife by design.”
The association has invited graduates to view its #ExploreAcoustics guide in a bid to highlight acoustics as a career.
Pic: KindelMedia
