QSI in Natura 2000 sites. The coloured areas are the Natura 2000 network with the corresponding value of the QSI index, ranging from 0 (red, noisy protected areas) to 1 (dark green, potentially quiet areas

Evidence shows that natural green and blue spaces (e.g. parks, forests, lakes) enhance mental well-being, especially in quiet environments. The Environmental Noise Directive (END) emphasises preserving quiet areas across Europe's urban and rural settings. There is increasing evidence of mental well-being provided by green spaces, particularly in quiet areas. The Environmental Noise Directive (END), emphasizes the necessity of preserving environmental noise quality in regions where human exposure is significant, particularly in urban settings, public parks, and near sensitive facilities like schools and hospitals.