How can you reduce radiation exposure from mobile phones? It starts with the purchase, according to the relevant federal authority. Fortunately, there are also tips for low-radiation smartphone use in everyday life. You will be safe using your phone for the casino online with less radiation.
If you value having as low-radiation a smartphone as possible, you can compare the radiation values (SAR values) of different models before buying. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) operates a searchable database with the SAR values of over 4,000 current and older mobile phones as well as tablets. The service called “SAR Search” on the BfS website aims to provide transparency and enable consumers to make informed decisions, as stated by the authority.
Controlling High-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields
Mobile phones, like other radio applications, use high-frequency electromagnetic fields to transmit voice and data, as explained by the BfS. These fields can warm body tissue. However, limiting the permissible SAR value ensures that the warming remains very low and does not reach a harmful level.
SAR stands for Specific Absorption Rate and refers to the amount of energy absorbed by nearby body tissue from the transmitting phone. The valid SAR maximum value is set at two watts per kilogram. For each mobile phone model, manufacturers determine the SAR value using a standardized test. The BfS continuously uploads the results into the SAR Search database.
Many Phones Have a SAR Value Below 2 Watts
According to the BfS, many mobile phones have a significantly lower SAR value than the permitted two watts per kilogram. If you want to minimize your exposure to the high-frequency electromagnetic fields of mobile communications in everyday life, you can choose a device with a low SAR value. However, there are also many other individual ways to reduce exposure.
Individual Ways to Reduce Exposure
According to the BfS, these include:
– Keep the Phone Away from Your Ear: The intensity of electromagnetic fields decreases rapidly with distance. Just a few centimeters can make a big difference. Therefore, using a headset is recommended. Another alternative is to use the speakerphone feature on your smartphone.
– Monitor Reception: Mobile phones adjust their transmission power according to the conditions in the area. The weaker the mobile network, the stronger the devices have to transmit. To protect yourself, avoid making calls when reception is poor, such as when on a train, in cars without external antennas, or in areas with inadequate coverage.
– Use Alternatives: If given the choice, you can also use landline phones for conversations.
– Keep Calls Short and Text Instead: Whenever possible, try to keep phone calls short or opt for texting instead of calling.
Consider Sustainability as Well
In addition to radiation exposure, you should also consider other factors when buying and using a mobile phone.
For example, is the device easy to repair? How transparent is the supply chain? (Some manufacturers focus on these aspects, such as Fairphone and Shiftphone.) Can I buy the device used/refurbished?
Sustainable Phone: The Market is Manageable
The sustainability issues of smartphones are complex; below, you’ll find more information on this topic. First, we want to mention manufacturers that do better than the competition and try to offer fair and sustainable phones.
Fairphone: Fair Smartphones in the Fifth Generation
The Dutch technology company Fairphone introduced its Fairphone 5 in August 2023. We’ve already conducted a practical test of the new Fairphone. Like previous models, this more sustainable smartphone is modularly built, allowing users to buy spare parts and often repair their phones themselves in case of defects. You can purchase the Fairphone 5 from Memolife or AfB, or from Otto, Mediamarkt, or Amazon.
Since its founding, Fairphone has advocated for livable wages and aims to expand its existing program to include suppliers, preventing the exploitation of workers in mines. The company now sources 14 materials, such as gold and lithium, from fair sources or recycling. Fairphone also commits to recycling as many smartphones as it sells.
The Fairphone is produced in China. However, the company has credibly set itself the goal of improving conditions on the ground and is transparent about global supply chains. According to the manufacturer, production in Europe would even result in a higher carbon footprint since most components would still have to be sourced from Asia.
You can also save emissions during use, for example while streaming or during video calls.