Biological effects of electromagnetic fields on insects: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Authors: Thill A, Cammaerts MC, Balmori A

Year: 2023 Nov 23

Category: Environmental Health

Journal: Rev Environ Health

DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2023-0072

URL: https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/reveh-2023-0072/html

Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview: This systematic review looks into the dangerous effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on insects, highlighting the anthropogenic origin of these fields from technologies such as power lines and mobile networks.

Findings: The review evaluates numerous studies that illustrate the non-thermal biological impacts of EMF on insects. The results indicate clear detrimental effects in controlled lab environments, but these results are less certain in field conditions. The surge of 5G technology adds urgency to these findings, as the technology's full environmental impact remains untested.

Conclusion: Given the preliminary but persuasive evidence of harm to insect life from EMF exposure, the current regulatory thresholds for EMF emissions might need rigorous re-evaluation. This paper recommends more extensive field studies to better understand the ecological implications and potentially enforce stricter regulations to safeguard wildlife against EMF pollution.

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