Do electromagnetic fields used in telecommunications affect wild plant species? A control impact study conducted in the field

Authors: Czerwiński M, Vian A, Woodcock BA, Goliński P, Recuero Virto L, Januszkiewicz T

Year: 2023

Category: Ecology

Journal: Ecological Indicators

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2023.110267

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X23004090

Abstract

Overview

With the rapid expansion of wireless communication networks, there has been a significant increase in radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure. This exposure may pose risks to living organisms, including plants within natural ecosystems.

Findings

  • Previous studies have predominantly focused on short-duration laboratory exposures of crop plants to RF-EMFs.
  • This study explores the long-term impacts on ten wild plant species, from seed germination to maturity, in a controlled field setting utilizing the 866–868 MHz frequency band.
  • Results varied across species with most showing negligible or no response to RF-EMF, except Trifolium arvense which exhibited growth stimulation and changed leaf orientation after exposure.
  • Over time, RF-EMF-exposed Trifolium arvense entered senescence earlier, suggesting potential irreversible effects of RF-EMF in natural conditions.

Conclusion

Exposure to RF-EMFs at environmentally relevant levels can lead to permanent and selective effects on certain wild plant species, emphasizing the need for further research on RF-EMF's ecological impact. Particularly, Trifolium arvense shows potential as an indicator species for environmental RF-EMF exposure.

RF-EMF wild plants telecommunications plant morphology ecosystem impact
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