A European Court of Auditors study reveals a lack of EU-wide noise reduction targets and poor monitoring of noise pollution, affecting over 30% of the population, especially children. The Environmental Noise Directive has not been revised in over 20 years, leading to government inaction. Citizens express concerns about harmful noise levels, particularly from road traffic. The European Commission aims to reduce chronic noise pollution by 30% by 2030 but lacks binding targets. Experts warn that without action, the number of people harmed by noise could increase.