Abeille” law: towards a more responsible connectivity with LiFi

The so-called “Abeille” law on public exposure to electromagnetic waves, adopted in 2015, has highlighted the central role of LiFi, a light-based connectivity technology, in the Internet equipment of places welcoming the public.

The omnipresence of electromagnetic waves is known as radiofrequency. It raises many questions, particularly about their effects on health.

For several years, many citizens have attributed various ailments to radiofrequency waves. It was from the most benign to the most severe (electro sensitivity, tachycardia, tinnitus, cancers, etc.). Despite the multiplication of sources emitting radiofrequency waves (relay antennas, WiFi access points, cell phones, microwave ovens, etc.), research is still not able to deny their role in the development of these pathologies.

After a thorough study of the scientific publications published on the subject, the WHO and the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer created by the WHO) have classified electromagnetic radio frequencies as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” Suppose the scientific sphere seems to struggle to identify and measure the real health risks of these emissions. In that case, it is impossible to give the benefit of the doubt to radiofrequency waves in schools, town halls, or libraries at the risk of threatening the physical integrity of developing children and vulnerable people.

In the context of this growing concern, the government adopted 2015 the “Abeille” law, aiming to moderate or even ban the use of electromagnetic waves where they are not desirable.

Law “Abeille”: what does it say?

The law n°2015-136 of February 9, 2015, known as the “Abeille” law, relating to sobriety, transparency, information, and consultation in terms of public exposure to electromagnetic waves, established the principle of “sobriety of public exposure to electromagnetic fields.” This principle is reflected in the following measures:

• Establishments offering WiFi access to the public (town hall, media library) must mention it through a pictogram at the establishment’s entrance.
• Establishments that welcome children under the age of 3 are forbidden to use WiFi in areas reserved for reception, rest, and activities.
• In elementary schools, WiFi must be turned off when not used for educational purposes.

The “Abeille” law formed the National Dialogue Committee on Public Exposure Levels to Waves to raise public awareness of radio frequency issues. This committee, housed within the ANFR (The National Frequency Agency), brings together all stakeholders (associations, communities, manufacturers …) to create a space for exchange and consultation on exposure to electromagnetic waves.

LiFi and the “Bee” law: when compliance rhymes with performance

LiFi and the “Bee” law: when compliance rhymes with performance

A real step forward for public health, the “Abeille” law raises awareness and responsibility of the actors of our municipalities regarding the need to change the paradigm in terms of telecommunications.

Because it is based on the LED light, the Li-Fi technology is free of radiofrequency waves. This light is emitted by a transmitter device (Access Point) equipped with LED bulbs and usually installed on the ceiling and received by a receiver (Dongle) connected to the computer, smartphone, or tablet.

A healthier technology, but not only. Beyond its compliance with the law “Bee” in terms of electromagnetic waves, LiFi  offers other advantages for the public:

• Speed: with a throughput equivalent to optical fiber, LiFi allows its users to perform all their usual activities on the web at optimal speed: streaming, games, video conferencing, collaborative tools, MOOCs, etc.
• Security: unlike radio waves, light does not pass through walls. That means that it is impossible to hack a LiFi signal from outside the room in which it is installed.
• Stability: It is very common for several people to use the Internet simultaneously in public facilities. LiFi allows each user to have a stable connection without fluctuations, and this is for up to 32 people in one room.

Far from being an obstacle to using digital resources in public places, the “Abeille” law is an open door to the use of new technologies. It will no longer be necessary to choose between an efficient, healthy Internet connection.