UPDATE: In 2023 the world’s most advanced solar blind light base indoor wireless networks with effectively zero SAR were approved for US Patent. uvgi-fi-patent
Researchers argue that several straightforward engineering solutions could considerably decrease the radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted by cellphones, suggesting that the wireless industry may soon have to prioritize safety.
According to a new peer-reviewed study by the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF), simple hardware and software modifications could effectively reduce RFR emissions from cellphones. The report, published on April 4, highlights that some of these low-cost fixes already exist as patented technology in the industry.
Joel Moskowitz, Ph.D., director of the Center for Family and Community Health at the University of California, Berkeley, and one of the study’s authors, stated, “Given the growing evidence of the health effects of radiation from cellphones and cell towers, I believe the wireless industry is going to have to start competing on safety.”
As concerns about the safety of cellphones and wireless devices become more widespread, Moskowitz expects an increasing number of products designed to minimize wireless radiation exposure to hit the market. He mentions a specific brand of wireless router created to reduce exposure as an example.
Elizabeth Kelley, managing director of ICBE-EMF and co-author of the study, claims that their proposed “common-sense” changes could “quickly and dramatically reduce” RFR exposure from cellphones, creating a healthier environment while maintaining connectivity. She suggests shutting down constant location transmissions when phones are stationary, which would reduce radiation emissions.
According to the authors, cellphones could be designed to switch off RFR emissions when a proximity sensor detects the human body. They also note that some wireless companies, such as Nokia Corp. and Motorola Inc., already hold patents for technologies that could be employed to develop improved antenna systems and reduce wireless radiation exposure.
The authors suggest that using Wi-Fi for calls instead of cell towers would also significantly reduce radiation emissions. Additionally, they propose installing software on cellphones that limits radiation exposure by controlling the cumulative dose of RFR.
In their paper, the researchers examined the history of current cellphone emission standards and discovered a series of outdated assumptions and poorly designed experiments. Paul Héroux, Ph.D., the paper’s first author and a professor at McGill University, said, “These blind spots call into serious question the validity of those standards.”
Moskowitz believes that cellphone manufacturers will argue that their devices already comply with government standards. However, he asserts that no manufacturer will guarantee the safety of the radiation emitted by their cellphones, as they are aware of potential risks and have been advised against making such claims.
Although some in the wireless industry may argue that making cellphones safer is costly and unnecessary, Moskowitz draws a parallel with the automobile industry, which initially resisted calls for improved safety but now competes on that basis.
Increasing Demand for Safer Cellphones
As awareness of the potential health risks associated with cellphone radiation continues to grow, the demand for safer cellphones is expected to increase. Consumers will likely prioritize devices with reduced radiation emissions, putting pressure on the wireless industry to develop innovative solutions.
Regulatory Changes and Industry Standards
As more scientific evidence emerges about the health effects of cellphone radiation, it is likely that regulatory bodies will review and update existing guidelines and standards. Governments may also consider implementing stricter regulations to ensure the safety of wireless devices, ultimately encouraging the industry to invest in research and development for safer technologies.
Education and Awareness Campaigns
In addition to engineering solutions, education and awareness campaigns can play a critical role in promoting the safe use of cellphones. By informing the public about potential risks and best practices to minimize radiation exposure, users can make more informed choices when using their devices. These campaigns can also drive the demand for safer products, further encouraging the wireless industry to prioritize safety.
Impact on the Wireless Industry
Should the wireless industry begin to compete on safety, it will likely lead to significant advancements in technology and innovation. Companies that prioritize the development of safer devices may gain a competitive edge in the market. This shift could also pave the way for new startups and entrepreneurs to enter the market with unique solutions to address consumer concerns about radiation exposure.
Conclusion
As the evidence for potential health risks related to cellphone radiation accumulates, the wireless industry may have to start competing on safety. Simple engineering fixes and technological advancements can significantly reduce radiofrequency radiation emissions, ultimately benefiting both consumers and the industry. In the future, we can expect to see an increasing number of safer wireless devices, as well as regulatory changes and awareness campaigns, to address this growing concern.
Read the published paper here: https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-022-00900-9
FAQs on Cellphone Radiation and Safety
- What is radiofrequency radiation (RFR)?
RFR is a type of non-ionizing radiation emitted by wireless devices such as cellphones, Wi-Fi routers, and microwave ovens. It is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and has lower energy levels compared to ionizing radiation, like X-rays. - Is cellphone radiation harmful?
Research on the potential health effects of cellphone radiation is still ongoing, with some studies suggesting possible links to various health issues, including cancer and neurological disorders. However, more research is needed to establish a clear and definitive connection. - What can be done to reduce cellphone radiation exposure?
Simple engineering fixes, such as shutting down unnecessary transmissions and utilizing proximity sensors, can help reduce RFR emissions. Additionally, using speakerphone, earphones, or a wired headset and keeping the phone away from the body can help minimize exposure. - Are there cellphones designed to emit less radiation?
There are some cellphone models available with lower RFR emissions. As awareness about radiation safety increases, it is expected that more devices with reduced radiation emissions will be introduced to the market. - What are the current regulations for cellphone radiation emissions?
Each country has its own set of regulations regarding RFR emissions. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) sets guidelines on the maximum Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for cellphones. The current limit is 1.6 watts per kilogram (W/kg). - Will regulatory bodies update their guidelines and standards?
As new research emerges on the health effects of cellphone radiation, it is possible that regulatory bodies will review and update existing guidelines and standards. Stricter regulations could be implemented to ensure the safety of wireless devices. - How can I check my cellphone’s radiation levels?
The SAR value of a cellphone can usually be found in the device’s user manual, on the manufacturer’s website, or through the FCC’s online SAR database. This value indicates the maximum level of radiation the phone emits under laboratory conditions. - What role can education and awareness campaigns play in promoting cellphone safety?
Education and awareness campaigns can inform the public about potential risks and best practices to minimize radiation exposure, empowering users to make informed choices when using their devices. This can also drive demand for safer products and encourage the wireless industry to prioritize safety. - Can cellphone manufacturers guarantee that their devices are safe?
While cellphone manufacturers may state that their devices comply with government standards, they generally do not guarantee that the radiation emitted by their cellphones is completely safe and will not harm users. This is because the long-term health effects of cellphone radiation are still not fully understood. - Will the wireless industry compete on safety in the future?
As awareness about the potential health risks of cellphone radiation continues to grow, it is likely that the wireless industry will need to prioritize safety and develop innovative solutions to reduce radiation emissions. This could lead to a more competitive market with safer products and technologies.
