Volume of mobile telecommunications data
Mobile phone networks are not only used for the transmission of phone calls, they are increasingly being used for the transmission of data. The arrival of smartphones and new technologies explain a significant increase in the volume of data transmitted through the mobile phone network. The greater the volume of transmitted data (e.g. videos, music, games, e-mails, apps), the higher the transmission power has to be.
Mobile communication plays a role in the digitisation of society and the world of work. According to the Federal Council’s “Digital Switzerland” strategy, Switzerland should be among the world’s leading countries in terms of the availability and use of mobile and fixed broadband connections. This (initial) state is fulfilled and cannot be evaluated from an environmental perspective.
In recent years, the volume of data transmitted through mobile phone networks has increased considerably (more than half for video use), however, the growth rate is slowing down. The exposure to high-frequency radiation is still relatively low in public spaces. The values measured as part of the Swiss monitoring of non-ionizing radiation exposure are clearly below the immission limit values (Elektrosmog-Belastung). The highest (but still low) average values were measured at bus and tram stops, in train stations, in urban city centers, and in industrial areas. The lowest values were recorded in natural areas.
Information regarding the volume of transmitted data is obtained from mobile network operators in Switzerland.
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