Network-Scale Impact of Vegetation Loss on Coverage and Exposure for 5G Networks

Authors: Schampheleer J, Huss A, Deruyck M

Year: 2025

Category: Telecommunications

Journal: IEEE Access

DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3538054

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10870177

Abstract

Overview

The study thoroughly examines the influence of vegetation on 5G network performance, particularly in Utrecht, The Netherlands. It breaks new ground by incorporating vegetation and building-related obstacles into network planning simulations on a city-wide level.

Findings

Investigation of the dual role of vegetation as both a barrier and a mitigator in network coverage and user exposure.
Analysis of coverage reduction by 14.71% in sub-6 GHz networks and a 42.98% decrease in downlink whole-body SAR in mmWave networks due to vegetation.
Evaluation of how different base station placements can help mitigate coverage losses without affecting exposure levels adversely.
Insight into the heightened sensitivity of mmWave networks to physical obstructions like vegetation.

Conclusion

The findings stress the necessity of including natural and built environment factors in 5G network planning to optimize performance and minimize exposure risks in urban settings.

5G networks vegetation impact network performance urban planning user exposure base station deployment network sensitivity

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