Regulating the risks of mobile phone base stations: a comparative study in 5 countries
Résumé
This addressed the problem of regulating uncertain risks in the scientific context (‘known
unknowns’ and ‘unknown unknowns’) and social (including economic and political) context.
A comparative study of mobile phone base station deployment was conducted in 5 European
countries- France, UK, Belgium, Switzerland and Spain. The countries have not taken similar
decisions in regard RF exposure and their regulatory measures have not eliminated
controversy. It was found that:
- The countries did not share a similar assessment of base station risks
- In most countries an intermediate level of government exerted pressure on the central
government
- Mobile phone operators exerted pressure on the central government.
These elements explained the differences in regulatory measures but two other issues had an
effect (inflaming or calming) – local charters to apply stricter rules and the ability to take
matters to court. In the end it is action and interaction between five stakeholders that hold the
key, namely central government, scientific experts, operators, local authorities and the courts.
In countries where controversy is greatest there is also the greatest instability and
inconsistency between the five agents.
Four short presentations that address policy options based on the concept of precaution were
outlined, showing the diversity of measures that are being taken around the world.