Vilnius researchers turn crop waste into solution for urban noise

LITHUANIA – Researchers at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University are finding new ways to deal with two global issues at once: agricultural waste and urban noise pollution.

Led by Nuushuun Archie Gboe, the team has developed sound absorbing materials using coconut and sugarcane fibres, giving cities a sustainable option for reducing noise levels.

Agriculture produces about 1.3 billion tonnes of waste each year. Much of it ends up polluting the environment, while urban centres continue to struggle with rising noise levels that harm both mental and physical health.

“Our study aims to address both problems by converting agricultural residues into effective acoustic materials,” explained Gboe.

The study, published in Mokslas: Lietuvos Ateitis (Science: Future of Lithuania), shows how crop by-products can be turned into high performing, eco-friendly soundproofing products.

These materials could be installed in schools, hospitals, offices, and residential buildings to improve quality of life in noisy urban areas.

The team carried out a Life Cycle Assessment to examine the environmental impact of different waste management approaches. They found that the cheapest option created the most greenhouse gas emissions at 20,439 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year.

On the other hand, the most environmentally friendly option reduced emissions to 5,148 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year, though it came at higher cost.

Beyond emissions, the researchers tested the sound absorption of the materials. Composites made with a non-toxic PVA binder showed striking results.

Sugarcane fibre at a density of 75 kg per cubic metre achieved an absorption rate of 0.94 at 800 Hz. Coconut fibre at 125 kg per cubic metre reached 0.91 at 1,000 Hz.

“These results show that sugarcane works well at lower frequencies, while coconut is stronger at mid-to-high ranges,” noted Gboe. “Both fibres have real potential for building applications.”

Wider implications for building and energy

The findings suggest major opportunities for the construction industry, where there is growing demand for materials that lower emissions while maintaining strong performance.

“This research demonstrates the potential of agricultural waste as a resource for creating a more sustainable, circular economy,” said Gboe.

By offering a way to repurpose farm waste into high value products, the work points to a future where noise reduction and waste management can be solved together.

As cities expand and construction continues, the adoption of bio-based soundproofing materials could improve urban living conditions while reducing environmental pressure.

Researchers stress that more studies will be needed before large-scale commercial production. But the early signs point toward crop waste serving not only as a challenge but as part of the solution for greener and quieter cities.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.