Public perceptions of electromagnetic fields and environmental health risks
Abstract
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible fields of energy generated when electricity flows through wires or a device. Radiofrequency EMFs (RF EMFs) are a specific type of EMF generated by telecommunications masts and devices. There is no scientific evidence that RF EMFs lead to negative health outcomes, particularly at the levels observed in public spaces in Ireland, but previous surveys suggest that substantial minorities of the public may hold concerns about exposure. This study employs methods from behavioural science to measure perceptions of risk from EMFs among the general public. To contextualise perceived risk, we also record perceptions of other environmental hazards with known health consequences (e.g., carbon monoxide, particulate matter). A nationally representative sample of 800 adults took part in an online survey in September 2023. The study produced the following findings: Very few people (2.7%) mentioned EMFs when asked in a free text question about environmental hazards they are aware of. The most commonly generated hazards were outdoor air quality (59.7%), risks from cars and traffic (29.5%) and weather hazards (e.g., UV radiation; 22.8%). Other hazards with known health consequences were generated less frequently, including water contaminants (16.4%), radon gas (4.6%), noise (4.1%) and indoor air quality (3.7%). Responses to rating scales, informed by the psychology of risk perception, implied moderate levels of concern about EMFs. When asked about the…
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