Radiation emissions from base stations
A common concern regarding mobile use is radiation. Singtel closely monitors
international research and developments in this area. The local authority on
Electromagnetic Field (EMF) matters is the Centre for Radiation Protection
(CRPNS). Their advice is that radiofrequency exposure is safe as long as it is
within the specified guidelines. The CRPNS has also acknowledged that "no
study has shown adverse health effects at exposure levels below international
guideline limits". The radiation levels from Singtel's mobile base stations are
within the acceptable limits.
Singtel has adopted the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation
Protection (ICNIRP) Standards for health-based exposure limits relating to
base stations. These standards are widely accepted internationally as the
leading standards on exposure to radiation emissions from base stations and
handsets.
In Singapore, mobile phone manufacturers must demonstrate to IDA that their
devices comply with certain technical requirements set out by the regulator.
These requirements ensure that such devices operate within the standards
developed by the ICNIRP. |
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Other environmental concerns
Biodiversity
The loss of biodiversity is a global concern and one which Singtel takes
seriously. When laying cables, both underground and undersea, we will first
assess any potential biodiversity issue. For example, should our cable laying
affect any tree routes, we will consult the National Parks Board and from
their advice make a judgment on how best to proceed so as not to risk
damaging any tree.
For submarine cable installations which include seabed burial, shore-end work
and surface laying, we will ensure that there is no adverse ecological impact to
the air and water quality or to the natural environment, although minor
localised seabed disturbance is unavoidable.
During this reporting period, we did not encounter any significant
biodiversity issues. |
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