Abstract

Overview

This systematic map investigates the extent of anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMF) on animals and plants, highlighting a lack of international protective guidelines for the environment, unlike the existing guidelines for human exposure by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).

Background

• Exposures primarily stem from telecommunications sources, now including technologies like the 5G network.
• The systematic map is both searchable and comprehensive, focusing on identifying knowledge gaps, necessary future research, and informing relevant authorities.

Methods

Employs a multistage screening process of various literature to ensure a robust collection of data regarding RF EMF's impact on all animal and plant life across frequencies of 100 kHz to 300 GHz.

Findings

• Generated from an extensive review of 24,432 articles; 334 were included focusing mainly on fauna like insects and birds, and flora such as grains and legumes.
• Most studies employed frequencies between 300 and 3000 MHz and were of low exposure below ICNIRP limits.
• Significant examinations were on reproduction, development, and behavioral effects in animals, and germination and growth in plants.

Conclusion

Highlights a definitive need for systematic reviews of specific evidence clusters and calls for improved study quality to adequately evaluate the environmental impacts of RF EMF, particularly under real-life conditions relevant to ecological well-being.