Environmental influences: Electrosmog

ELEKTROSMOG

It is a significant concern for us to mention and emphasize once again the potential dangers of Wi-Fi and DECT (cordless phones) in workplaces and homes. The electromagnetic pollution that penetrates our living and working spaces from external sources is beyond our direct control. Therefore, it is crucial to minimize exposure within our own spaces.

We receive numerous inquiries from individuals seeking solutions for nearby mobile phone masts or Wi-Fi installations from neighbors. Yet often, people overlook their own Wi-Fi networks or cordless phones (DECT phones) in this context. These devices can be likened to mini cell towers that continuously emit strong signals, specifically designed to penetrate walls and ceilings. However, the convenience of wireless installations comes at a high price. For example, the radiation emitted by a tablet PC with Wi-Fi enabled can exceed the recommendations of the German Environmental and Nature Conservation Association (BUND) by a factor of 30,000.

The list of "wireless-friendly" devices continues to grow. It's not just routers and computers; even game consoles, televisions, cameras, smoke detectors, and even toothbrushes are equipped with wireless technology. However, it's relatively easy to reduce these exposures by categorizing your devices into three groups: those you can turn off, those you can use with a cord, and those you can keep at a distance.

Tips for the Use of Mobile Phones, Wi-Fi, and Cordless Phones to Reduce Electromagnetic Pollution:

Turn Off: This is still the simplest and safest method to avoid exposure.
Use with a cord: Use wired devices whenever possible. Disable the Wi-Fi function on your devices and establish internet connections using Ethernet cables. Adapters that connect your smartphone/tablet to your LAN-cables are cheap and easy to use (search for "smartphone to lan adapter").

At home, turn off your mobile phone and use a corded phone instead, with an extension cord if necessary.

Keep devices at a distance: if you need to use these devices, install them as far away from sleeping or working areas as possible. For mobile phone calls, use the speaker phone function or wired, shielded headsets. The duration of exposure to radiation is also a crucial health factor. Try to use devices for shorter periods and less frequently.

If you are in the market for a new smartphone, be sure to consider the radiation levels (SAR levels) of the devices, as there can be significant differences. You can find a lists of current devices and their radiation values online.

The Origin of Electromagnetic Pollution:

Electromagnetic frequencies are part of the shaping forces of nature. Over long geological periods, they have diversified and harmonized with one another in the Earth's development. Everything, from stones and flowers to cells, and even states of health and illness, modulates its oscillation in a differentiating manner. Birds, fish, and bees use electromagnetic frequencies, among other factors, for orientation.

Within a few years, a global network of very strong artificial electromagnetic frequencies was established. These frequencies, however, intrude into natural frequencies without any possibility of adaptation. Therefore, it is not surprising that an increasing number of people report heightened sensitivity to and adverse effects from wireless technology.

Since this technology is relatively new and constantly evolving, studies on its effects on humans and nature are contradictory. Nevertheless, there are signs pointing to potential harmful effects:

An appeal, strongly warning of the dangers of radiofrequency radiation and electromagnetic pollution, was signed by over 1,000 doctors.
The German Medical Association (Bundesärztekammer) already in 2010 called for a significant reduction in the radiation limits for mobile phone radiation.
In 2011, the World Health Organization classified mobile phone radiation as "possibly carcinogenic" at the same level as substances like lead, mold, and automobile exhaust.
In his 2011 long-term study, Swedish professor Hardell found up to a 7.7-fold increased risk of tumors due to mobile phone use.
Swiss Re, one of the world's largest reinsurance companies, considered the risk of potential damage claims so likely in 2013 that they classified mobile telephony in the highest risk category.

Sources of Electromagnetic Pollution:

Electromagnetic pollution primarily originates from mobile phone transmission masts, satellite technology, radar systems, TV and radio transmissions, high-voltage power lines, transformers, and overhead lines for trains and trams. However, in our homes and offices, we also face significant exposure from cordless phones, Wi-Fi systems, wireless alarms, mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, notebooks, Bluetooth, and other devices.

Symptoms of electromagnetic pollution may include:

• Mood disturbances
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Concentration and sleep disturbances
• Feelings of tightness and pressure
• Nervousness and irritability
• Headaches
• Chronic stress and more.