Eco-Friendly Solutions for Noise and Air Pollution Mitigation Near Highways

Highway infrastructure, while vital for economic growth and connectivity, significantly contributes to environmental pollution, particularly in the form of noise and airborne contaminants. These impacts degrade human health, reduce quality of life, and contribute to ecological imbalance in areas adjacent to transport corridors. This paper explores innovative and sustainable barrier technologies designed to simultaneously mitigate both noise and air pollution near highways. It examines various eco-friendly materials such as recycled rubber, cork, and geotextiles, and analyzes multifunctional designs integrating vertical gardens, photovoltaic systems, and public utilities. Drawing on global case studies from Italy, The Netherlands, Singapore, and other regions, the study evaluates the effectiveness, feasibility, and long-term value of these solutions. It further discusses the socio-economic and environmental advantages, addresses challenges such as cost and maintenance, and proposes a future roadmap including AI-IoT integration and interdisciplinary research. The findings underscore the transformative potential of sustainable barrier systems to create cleaner, quieter, and more livable environments around highway corridors.