Soundscape Standardization and Sustainability: An Evaluation of ISO 12913 in the Brazilian Context

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Ranny Loureiro Xavier Nascimento Michalski - , Federal University of São Paulo (Author)
  • Viviane Suzey Gomes de Melo - , Federal University of Santa Maria (Author)
  • Margret Sibylle Engel - , Chair of Acoustics and Haptics (Author)

Abstract

The ISO 12913 series represents a paradigm shift in environmental acoustics by introducing a human-centered and perceptual framework for soundscape assessment. Although conceived as globally applicable, questions remain regarding its implementation in Global South contexts. This study evaluates how ISO 12913 is perceived, interpreted, and applied in Brazil, with the aim of identifying its strengths, limitations, and contextual adaptation needs in relation to soundscape standardization and sustainability. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining an online survey with Brazilian soundscape researchers and practitioners and a virtual focus group with domain experts. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis structured under a Societal Research Impact Assessment framework. The results indicate broad recognition of the conceptual relevance of ISO 12913, especially its interdisciplinary and human-centered approach. However, several challenges were identified, including linguistic and semantic inconsistencies in perceptual attributes, limited guidance for indoor soundscape assessment, conceptual ambiguities, and socioeconomic constraints affecting implementation. Participants highlighted the need for cultural, linguistic, and methodological adaptations to enable meaningful application within heterogeneous and resource-constrained contexts. By foregrounding the Brazilian experience, the study contributes to global debates on soundscape standardization, by demonstrating how international frameworks such as ISO 12913 can be refined through meaningful engagement with Global South contexts. The study supports the development of complementary national guidelines aimed at enhancing contextual adequacy, operational feasibility, and long-term societal impact, thereby fostering more inclusive and socially sustainable soundscape assessment practices.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number2752
Number of pages40
JournalSustainability
Volume18
Issue number6
Publication statusPublished - 11 Mar 2026
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

unpaywall 10.3390/su18062752
Scopus 105034289375

Keywords

Research priority areas of TU Dresden

Subject groups, research areas, subject areas according to Destatis

Keywords

  • Global South, ISO 12913, Soundscape standardization, implementation, soundscape assessment, sustainability