16. The expert from China briefed GRB on the activities of the China vehicle noise standards working group (GRB-62-10). The experts from Japan informed GRB about the trends of noise regulation in Japan and gave an overview of the future policy for motor vehicle noise reduction (GRB-62-13-Rev.1 and GRB-62-12, respectively). The expert of ISO reported on the activities of his organization on interior noise, with the aim to review ISO 5128 (GRB-62-07). GRB took note of these presentations and felt that some of the issues raised could be included in the programme of work of GRB (see para. 27 below).

17. The expert from the Netherlands presented a policy indicator for road traffic noise emissions (GRB-62-14 and Add.1) that determines the effect of noise control at source on average noise levels at the dwelling facade and on estimated numbers of annoyed and sleep disturbed people. According to the expert, the indicator had been calculated for the Netherlands, showing a potential reduction of up to 50 per cent in annoyed and sleep disturbed people, if tighter limits for vehicles and tyres were introduced and road surfaces were improved. He also suggested that the policy indicator be applied for the whole EU. The experts from ETRTO and OICA commented on the proposed concept. The Chair proposed to continue the discussion in the future, taking into account comments from the industry.

18. The expert from the Netherlands briefed GRB on the Dutch public campaign “Choose the Best Tyre” and on potential benefits of energy-efficient tyres and correct tyre pressure maintenance (GRB-62-01 and Add.1, GRB-62-02-Rev.1). The Chair recalled other Dutch studies on this topic and commended the experts from the Netherlands for the considerable work undertaken and interesting results. He also called for a holistic approach and closer cooperation between the governments and industry in this area.