Biological Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields above 100 MHz on Fauna and Flora: Workshop Report

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.

Experimental Prototype of Electromagnetic Emissions for Biotechnological Research: Monitoring Cocoa Bean Fermentation Parameters

“…Numerous studies have shown that non-uniform magnetic fields can introduce variations in the response of biological systems, affecting the results of controlled biotechnological experiments [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ]. By addressing non-uniformity through polygonal coil designs and dimension adjustments, the understanding and applicability of electromagnetic technologies in various biotechnology studies can be advanced [ 21 , 22 , 23 ].…”

“…Recent research indicates that electromagnetic fields can stimulate or inhibit different biological systems [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ], such as the growth of plants [ 13 ], fruits [ 14 ], and microorganisms [ 15 ]. Similarly, they affect cells in the human [ 16 ] and animal [ 17 ] body by stimulating or inhibiting different cellular processes [ 18 ]. Several of these cellular properties have been used to improve health [ 4 ], obtain metabolites of industrial interest [ 5 ], and remove contaminants from soil [ 6 ], water [ 7 ], and air [ 8 ].…”

“…Recently, researchers have begun to investigate the potential impact of EMFs on fermentative processes. Although the role and influence of the magnetic field in this process are undeniable, there are many aspects to consider about its effects [ 12 ], which still need to be sufficiently understood [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ].…”

Application of Metal Shielding Materials to Protect Buildings Occupants from Exposure to the Electromagnetic Fields

“…Total E-field strength in all cases is no more than 91 dB mu V/m. Pophof et al [16] investigated the biological effects of RF-EMF on fauna and flora. This area is not well studied.…”

Addressing Wildlife Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields: Time for Action

“…Mobile communication networks have become increasingly pervasive in the environment, in both urban and remote natural areas, leading to unprecedented wildlife exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs; 100 kHz to 300 GHz) . RF-EMFs have the potential to exert a wide range of biological effects on wildlife, ranging from reduction in bat feeding activity and the alteration of life-history characteristics in insects to morphological abnormalities in plants. Different mechanisms have been proposed that could underlie these effects, including tissue heating and microwave hearing in animals or an increase in the rate of reactive oxygen species metabolism and level of cytosolic calcium in plants.…”