A desk-based review of ecoacoustic soundscapes for urban innovation and decarbonisation

Ecoacoustics—the study of environmental soundscapes as indicators of ecological condition—has emerged as a promising tool for urban innovation. As cities worldwide strive for carbon neutrality, nature-positive infrastructure, and climate resilience, ecoacoustics offers a unique, acoustics-driven lens to monitor change, assess environmental quality, and engage communities. This study undertakes a desk-based review of the development and application of ecoacoustic methods within urban and peri-urban settings. It explores how passive acoustic monitoring, soundscape indices, and long-term audio datasets are being used to support nature-based solutions, track biodiversity in green infrastructure, and evaluate co-benefits of decarbonisation efforts. Case studies from academic literature, policy reports, and monitoring platforms are analysed to highlight how ecoacoustics is influencing decision-making in sectors such as transport, land restoration, and city planning. While ecoacoustics is well established in ecological research, its potential contribution to urban acoustics, environmental assessment, and smart city platforms remains underexplored. This review aims to position ecoacoustics within the broader acoustics discipline—demonstrating how sound-based monitoring can complement traditional noise assessments and offer new pathways for sustainable urban development. Key gaps, standardisation challenges, and opportunities for integration into existing acoustic practice are also discussed.