Tempo 30 – Noise Reduction and Synergy Effects

This article describes a noise reduction method applied in the German-speaking realm in Europe, the so-called Tempo 30 (T30) restriction that limits vehicular speed to 30 km per hour, and differentiates between T30 arrangements and T30 Zones in Germany. Further, it analyses the expected levels of noise reduction, possible improvements in air quality, decrease in accident casualties, and levels of citizen acceptance and awareness of T30 regulation. It does so based on data from literature research and face-to-face interviews with Berlin residents. Further, it looks at the discussion for and against T30 and discusses the possible transfer of T30 policies and practices beyond the German speaking area, in particular to Bulgaria.