About the project

Soundlapse is a transdisciplinary research initiative funded by the Chilean National Agency for Research and Development (ANID) through FONDECYT project No. 1190722, titled “Time-lapse method to preserve the soundscape of urban wetlands.” This project combines several research areas focused on the study and preservation of wetland soundscapes, emphasizing their cultural and ecological significance. The initiative introduces innovative soundlapse techniques to raise awareness of the patrimonial value of these natural environments.

The foundation of the soundlapse method was laid during a pilot study conducted at Lancaster University, UK, in collaboration with renowned sound artist Chris Watson. This study pioneered a unique approach that condenses extended soundscape recordings into a more accessible format, providing an accelerated auditory perspective of how sound environments evolve over time. The method involves selecting evenly spaced audio samples from 24-hour wetland recordings (see Figure 1) and seamlessly stitching them together, creating fluid transitions that illustrate gradual changes in the soundscape.

The project continues to develop and apply the soundlapse method across various research domains, including soundscape recording, signal-processing, environmental education, interactive technologies, and artistic expression. These efforts aim to deepen our understanding of wetland environments and foster greater engagement with their conservation.