The Ministry of Digital Transformation (Now known as Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence), in collaboration with the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), has launched Noise Tracker TT. This noise pollution measurement and reporting app is designed to allow the public to measure noise pollution through personal devices and submit real-time reports.
Noise Tracker TT was created by local developer Johnny Tiu, who won the Noise Pollution Measurement and Reporting Solution category during the first D’Hub Challenge Series in April 2024. The D’Hub Challenges are part of the Ministry’s Developer Hub initiative, which empowers local developers with the tools, resources, and support to contribute to Trinidad and Tobago’s digital transformation journey. The app was introduced as part of a pilot project to address noise pollution in Woodbrook. It was presented during a community town hall on Wednesday, April 9th, the event featured a live demonstration of the app’s features, followed by a Q&A session. One of the local residents shared thoughts on how the project could benefit the community: “I think it’s a very important initiative that will launch,” said Nic. “It’s good for communities in dire need of some data-driven initiatives. I like how it’s data-driven.” She also suggested that a ‘how to use the app’ guide would be helpful. Nic mentioned she is planning to use the app herself and encourage other members of her family to do the same.
Noise Tracker TT will enable the collection of data on ambient noise levels, provide opportunities for residents to engage in tackling noise pollution and support D’Hub’s mission to use technology to solve real-world problems. The app allows users to report noise levels by area, thus contributing to the identification of trends in sound activity. The collected data will also assist the EMA in identifying noise hotspots that can be prioritized for attention and for the allocation of limited resources. Members of the public will enjoy a more convenient, efficient, and accurate way to report noise pollution to the EMA. The pilot project in Woodbrook is the first step in the roll out of this App with plans to expand the initiative to other areas across Trinidad and Tobago. The goal is to create long-term, sustainable solutions for managing noise pollution across the country.