1) We all know that the amount of EMR in our environment has increased dramatically with the introduction of wireless devices to the general public. And this will increase dramatically again with the introduction of 5G with the IoT resulting in many more devices being used. There is a very interesting chart in this Lancet article from a couple of years ago showing the increase since the 1950s, when FM radio stations began transmitting in earnest.
(click on photo to enlarge)
Planetary electromagnetic pollution: it is time to assess its impact
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196%2818%2930221-3/fulltext
2) The “smart” LED street lights installed in San Diego a couple of years ago have caused problems ranging from no cost savings to using cameras inappropriately and without proper authorization. Many things that BC Hydro must be asked about given their “smart” LED program.
Cops Tap Smart Streetlights Sparking Controversy and Legislation
“Says Caldwell, “When we initially launched the program, there was the hope that San Diego’s innovation economy community would find all sorts of interesting use cases for the data, and develop applications, and create a technology ecosystem around mobility and other solutions. That hasn’t born out yet, we have had a lot of conversations with companies looking at it, but it hasn’t turned into a smashing success yet.”
And the planned energy savings, intended to generate cash to pay for the expensive fixtures, were chewed up by increases in electric rates….
“It is a clear case of function creep. The lights weren’t designed as surveillance tools, rather, it’s a classic example of how data collection systems are easily retooled as surveillance systems, of how the capacities of the smart city to do good things can also increase state and police control.”
https://spectrum.ieee.org/view-from-the-valley/sensors/remote-sensing/cops-smart-street-lights
3) CRTC is beginning to provide money for expanded internet services to northern areas, including satellites and some fiber optic cable. Money is available and should be used for community owned fiber optic cable networks now that fiber optic is being installed in some areas.
CRTC announces $72M in broadband internet improvements for northern communities
Five northern community broadband projects in the N.W.T., Yukon and northern Manitoba will share in $72 million of Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) Broadband Fund money.
According to a press release from the CRTC Wednesday, the projects are designed to improve broadband internet service for about 10,100 households in 51 communities….
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/72-million-round-of-funding-1.5683877
Sharon Noble, Director, Coalition to Stop Smart Meters
“What is the use of a house if you haven’t got a tolerable planet to put it on?” Henry David Thoreau