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6th June 2009
European Parliament votes 559 to 22 to adopt a report on the risks of EMFs
Mobile phone masts and other EMF transmitters should be sited away from schools and health institutions, according to a report adopted by the European Parliament in April 2009.
Whilst acknowledging the benefits of wireless technologies, MEPs raise concerns over their "continuing uncertainties about possible health risks." In particular the exposure of children and young people to electromagnetic fields. Therefore, they are calling for stricter regulation and protection for residents and consumers.
The report, drafted by Frédérique RIES, notes that industry stakeholders can already influence a number of safety factors. The placement of antennas, mobile phone masts and high-voltage power lines should be negotiated between industry, public authorities and residents' associations in order to minimise health risks and legal action cases. This will also ensure that EMF-transmitting devices are kept clear of schools, crèches, retirement homes and health care institutions.
The report also suggests making maps available on the internet, which show areas which are exposed to EMF transmitting devices. The Commission should also produce a yearly report on the "level of electromagnetic radiation in the EU" and its sources.
Review of EMF limits and Interphone findings
The Commission is urged to review "the scientific basis and adequacy of the EMF limits as laid down in Recommendation 1999/519/EC" and to then report back to Parliament. This is in light of the fact that many member states have voluntarily introduced much stricter regulations than are required by the EU.
The report also refers to the Interphone study, which began in 2000, and which is a wide ranging scientific project to look into the links between mobile phones and certain types of cancer, including brain, auditory and parotid gland tumours. The results have been expected since 2006, but have been repeatedly postponed. The European Parliament is particularly concerned by the "appeal for caution" from Elisabeth Cardis, the coordinator of the Interphone study, that "as far as children are concerned, mobile phones should not be used beyond reasonable limits."
Aggressive marketing campaigns by telephone operators, including "the sale of mobile phones designed solely for children or free call time packages aimed at teenagers" are also condemned by MEPs.
For further information, see the European Parliament website.