An attractive natural soundproofing solution

Much of the dense road network in the Netherlands has noise barriers. Functionally intended to keep the noise out for the areas behind, but the need to give the noise barriers a more attractive appearance is increasing. 

Increasingly, people are looking at developing "green noise barriers" that add not only aesthetic but also ecological value. Kokosystems, originally a Westland company in horticulture, produces and supplies turn-key solutions for various noise challenges in the business and private sectors. Speaking is Arjan Kick, project manager at Kokosystems. "Twenty years ago, we started developing the coconut tubes that were already being used in indoor plants. This is how the screening screens for private individuals were conceived and from there also noise screens for the GWW sector. A completely Dutch invention produced by us in our factory in Poeldijk."

Kokowall® Noise Screen H=3.0m along cemetery at Katwijk (Image: Limes Landscape Advice)

Warm look, fits into any landscape
The Kokowall® noise barrier is one of the most attractive aesthetic solutions for noise reduction. The natural-looking and plantable sound barrier therefore has very high acceptance in residential areas and along highways. Kick explains, "We can offer a suitable noise protection solution for every situation. We supervise each project from A to Z, advising, engineering and executing. If required, we submit a planting plan. Already our screens are virtually maintenance free. The Kokowall® Noise Screen is modular and can be made in any size and color scheme. It has a relatively short construction time. Moreover, there is the possibility of building in steps, sloping construction (by means of sloping or diamond-shaped panels), sloping panels to connect to a ground wall or combinations with transparent panels. Because we make everything in-house, we can approach projects turn-key and provide customization."

The Kokowall® HA-Minwool Noise Screen applied at an industrial estate. On one side coir (aesthetic) and on the other side a layer of mineral wool, finished with wind cloth and plastic mesh net.

Unique: renewable raw material coconut fiber
"The coconut tubes are constructed from recycled plastic, extruded in-house. The tubes are wrapped with sustainable coconut fiber from Sri Lanka, obtained from harvested outer husks of the coconut fruit. In all Kokosystems noise screens, a sound insulating panel is used to provide the actual sound insulation. The outer surface of the screens is finished with coconut fiber that provides the ideal attachment for various types of climbing plants."

Kokowall® Noise Barrier H=8,0m along distribution center in Zoetermeer. The Kokowall® Noise Barriers consist of 98.8% of recyclable materials and are categorized in the highest environmental class in terms of carbon footprint.

Reduction of particulate matter and CO₂ by vertical planting
"The Kokowall^® Sound barrier is definitely the best vegetative type of sound barrier. The combination of evergreen, deciduous and flowering plants, which change color every season, creates an ecological and greener environment. Planting filters particulate matter and reduces CO₂ content in the air." Kick concludes, "Our noise barriers last more than 50 years. All in all, an ideal noise barrier for municipal and county roads, along residential areas and other locations directly along the road where vegetation on the noise barrier is possible."