A recent study by Dutch scientists found that Wi-Fi radiation could be responsible for sickness in urban-populated trees.


Image: baltimoresun

What would life be like without Wi-Fi, bringer of high speed internet access? Probably pretty inconvenient considering that millions of computer users around the world use it at home, at work and other public places to get online. Having access to wireless networks makes our lives easier, but according to a Dutch study from Wageningen University, this access may be compromising the health of trees.

The study began five years ago in the city of Alphen aan den Rijn. The Dutch city was concerned about weird growths and abnormal bleeding that appeared on its local trees. After additional testing it was found that over 70% of trees in all urban areas exhibited the same symptoms. What was making these trees sick? Radiation from Wi-Fi networks.

According to an article from PC World:

“The study exposed 20 ash trees to various radiation sources for a period of three months. Trees placed closest to the Wi-Fi radio demonstrated a "lead-like shine" on their leaves that was caused by the dying of the upper and lower epidermis of the leaves. This would eventually result in the death of parts of the leaves. The study also found that Wi-Fi radiation could inhibit the growth of corn cobs.”


Image: p2pnet

Sounds pretty scary, doesn’t it?  Well, don’t get too overwhelmed by these results. Although these findings are true, there is still no clear evidence that Wi-Fi radiation is directly killing our trees and plants. The Dutch researchers are conducting more studies to confirm the results.

What do you think? If Wi-Fi radiation is making trees sick, do you think it could also be harmful to humans?