Abstract

Overview

This report encapsulates key discussions and findings from an international workshop on the effects of anthropogenic electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields within the frequency range of 0 to 100 MHz on various flora and fauna. The workshop was held from November 5-7, 2019, in Munich, Germany.

Findings

• Both plants and animals exhibit differential reactions to anthropogenic fields. For animals, mechanisms like radical pairs and magnetite are suggested to play roles in magnetoreception across insects, birds, and mammals. Similarly, diverse insects and marine species are known to have specialized electroreceptors. Behavioral responses in these groups have been observed and documented.
• Flora has shown changes in growth when exposed to altered magnetic environments. Despite these findings, severe adverse effects attributable directly to these fields have not yet been established.

Conclusion

While there is substantial research into the responses of individual species to electromagnetic fields, more comprehensive studies are vital. These studies should aim at better understanding the underlying interaction mechanisms and potentially broader ecological impacts. Additional studies should also include natural populations and their ecosystems to fully gauge the environmental consequences of increasing anthropogenic EMF emissions. Recommendations were made to further investigate these interactions along with the overall environmental effects of these steadily increasing emissions.