Noise generated by traffic, industrial and recreational activities is one of the main local environmental problems in Europe. Although the noise generated by individual cars has been reduced by 85 percent (8 dbA) since 1970, this achievement has been negated through the growth in the number of cars on the roads and the longer distances travelled. According to the UK Government surveys, the total amount of traffic using the roads has grown by 73 percent between 1980 and 2002, which measures the total distance travelled by vehicles using pneumatic tyres, from 277 to 478 billion kilometres. UK Government forecasts for the future growth are around 17 percent for the period 2000 to 2010. UK Government surveys have found that 30 percent of people questioned were classed as being adversely affected by the impact of road traffic noise, with the main types of activity disturbed being the ability to sleep, watching the television or listening to the radio and not being able to have doors or windows open. The main reactions were classed as irritation and anger, with some people reporting depression or even having to temporarily leave their houses.