Wageningen University has released a report saying the constant humming of internet data centers and Wi-Fi networks are negatively affecting trees. The report, which studied trees in urban area of Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands, showed an increase in discoloration, bumps, and splitting in trees where Wi-Fi networks were available.
The study showed that in just five years the number of trees in urban areas of the Netherlands exhibiting symptoms of disease rose by 60 percent. To test these findings, researchers exposed twenty ash trees to radiation for a period of three months. Those closest to the Wi-Fi transmitters had “lead-like shine” on their leaves which ultimately led to the death of the leaves. A similar study also showed the Wi-Fi radiation stunted the growth of corn cobs.
It is believed that in addition to Wi-Fi and mobile phone electromagnetic fields particles emitted from vehicles may also be to blame for tree deaths. The researchers from Wageningen are encouraging further studies to confirm their results and study the long-term effects of Wi-Fi on the ecosystem.
