Examining how green space patterns affect noise distribution in urban areas with varying built-up densities

Noise pollution poses a significant challenge to the sustainable development and high-quality management of urban environments. Effective control of noise pollution requires urban planning strategies. Green spaces, with their adaptable characteristics and adjustable spatial layouts, play a critical role in mitigating noise and improving the urban sound environment. However, systematic analyses of the spatial relationship between green space patterns and noise distribution remain limited. This study examines the influence of green space patterns on noise spatial distribution across urban areas with varying densities in Lyon, France. The findings reveal: (1) Spatial heterogeneity leads to significant variations in the correlation between green space metrics and noise distribution, manifesting as differences in strength, direction, and statistical significance; (2) Key green space metrics influencing noise distribution vary by urban density—green space area in low-density areas, agglomeration and dispersion in medium-density areas, and patch density in high-density areas. Moreover, green spaces with network-like structures have a stronger influence on noise distribution; (3) While the overall impact of green space patterns on noise distribution is relatively consistent across density levels, the modes of influence and affected spatial areas differ significantly. Finally, the study covers how to design a system process for “refining research area - extracting analysis elements - exploring influence mechanism - selecting entry angle - adopting optimization strategy” based on different sections of the city. This study offers valuable insights into urban green space planning on a broader scale, emphasizing the critical role of green space patterns in urban design. By integrating spatial configurations of green spaces into planning strategies, this research highlights their potential to mitigate noise pollution. The findings aim to guide urban planners and environmental managers in fostering healthier, more sustainable urban soundscapes through noise reduction-oriented green space design.