Biological Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields above 100 MHz on Fauna and Flora: Workshop Report. Issue 1 (3rd January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pophof, Blanka; Henschenmacher, Bernd; Kattnig, Daniel R.; Kuhne, Jens; Vian, Alain; Ziegelberger, Gunde
• Is Part Of: Health physics. Volume 124:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: 31
• Page End: 38
• Publication Date: 2023-01-03
• Subjects: electromagnetic fields -- environmental impact -- health effects -- radiofrequency; Biophysics -- Periodicals; Health Physics -- periodicals; Radiation Protection -- periodicals; Radiotherapy -- periodicals; Medische fysica; Electronic journals; 612.01448
• DOI: 10.1097/HP.0000000000001625
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0017-9078

Abstract

Abstract: This report summarizes the effects of anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic fields with frequencies above 100 MHz on flora and fauna presented at an international workshop held on 5–7 November 2019 in Munich, Germany. Anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic fields at these frequencies are commonplace; e.g., originating from transmitters used for terrestrial radio and TV broadcasting, mobile communication, wireless internet networks, and radar technologies. The effects of these radiofrequency fields on flora, fauna, and ecosystems are not well studied. For high frequencies exceeding 100 MHz, the only scientifically established action mechanism in organisms is the conversion of electromagnetic into thermal energy. In accordance with that, no proven scientific evidence of adverse effects in animals or plants under realistic environmental conditions has yet been identified from exposure to low-level anthropogenic radiofrequency fields in this frequency range. Because appropriate field studies are scarce, further studies on plants and animals are recommended.