Why Is the Risk of Magnetic Fields in Electric and Hybrid Cars Rarely Mentioned?
Year by year, we are seeing a surge in electric and hybrid vehicles due to their environmental benefits and fuel efficiency. But there’s one other feature of these vehicles that few are talking about, though: magnetic fields.
How Come You Never Heard About This Before?
It’s not unusual for novel technologies to enter the market without too much public notice of their dangers. Indeed, history teaches us that many widely adopted products and technology were praised for their merits long before the hazards became obvious. Here are 2 examples: asbestos and cigarettes.
The Case of Asbestos: Lung Disease and Cancer
The miracle material of asbestos, a material known for its warmth and resistance to decay, was widely used in construction, shipbuilding and even household goods throughout the 20th century. Until its damaging side-effects, such as lung problems and cancer, became public knowledge, researchers had discovered the truth (source: American Cancer Society).
While reports of damage emerged as early as the 1930s, not until the late 20th century did many countries regulate and prohibit asbestos. This prolonged delay put millions of people at risk of fatal illnesses.
The Case of Cigarettes: Lung Cancer and Heart Diseases
Cigarettes, likewise, enjoyed decades of glamorous and benign marketing. And guess what? Even the earliest ads featured doctors recommending brands.
It wasn’t until the 1960s, when mass-market research identified smoking as a risk factor for lung cancer and heart disease, that the public took notice (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Until then, it took decades of lobbying and regulation to restrict cigarette advertising and introduce warnings.
The Case of EV and Hybrid Cars
For electric and hybrid cars, the argument has been largely about their environmental benefits, from less pollution and lower use of fossil fuels. They are indeed important, but they’ve drowned out concerns about potential adverse effects, such as exposure to magnetic fields.
One of the reasons you may not have been aware of this is because scientists take time to analyze the long-term impacts of emerging technologies. Electric and hybrid vehicles have only been on the road for several decades – far too short a time to understand exactly how long standing in their magnetic fields would impact human health. Scientists are still accumulating information, and as research advances, the doubts could be explained.
Why Should This Be A Deal To You?
Electric and hybrid cars are a giant step towards cleaner air and reduced fossil fuel consumption. But as with any new technology, it’s worth understanding all the compromises. Magnetic fields are something you should be concerned about, which is why you need to make more informed decisions for your own health and the wellbeing of your family.
Consider this: wouldn’t you like to know more about something that you’re exposed to for hours every day? Public education and research are the first steps to addressing potential risks.
