A growing number of celebrities and concerned citizens, including Stephen Fry, Chrissie Hynde, and Sophie Winkleman, recently signed a letter urging Transport for London (TfL) to reconsider its 5G advertising. This open letter, spearheaded by musician and Save Soho founder Tim Arnold, challenges the messaging of a poster that reads, “5G is coming to the Tube,” showing a young woman engrossed in her smartphone.
The Concerns Behind the Letter: Health, Social Pressure, and the Impact on Children
The letter calls out the potential health and social implications of normalizing constant connectivity through pervasive 5G technology. Specifically, the signatories argue that this advertisement could be dangerous for children, who may not yet have the awareness or autonomy to limit their screen time and exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) associated with 5G.
Quoting the UK Code of Broadcast Advertising, the letter emphasizes that “advertisements must not condone, encourage or unreasonably feature behavior that could be dangerous for children to emulate.” By promoting the notion that smartphone use is a default part of life, the ad may subtly pressure children into accepting 24/7 connectivity as the norm, with little room to explore non-digital alternatives.
5G and Radiation: What Does Science Say?
Beyond concerns about social pressures, research increasingly highlights the health implications of prolonged exposure to RF (radiofrequency) radiation, especially from newer, higher-frequency 5G networks. While much of the public remains unaware of these risks, scientific studies indicate potential links between EMF exposure and health issues ranging from sleep disturbances to neurodevelopmental disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have already classified RF radiation as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” based on limited evidence.
Some findings suggest that children are more susceptible to these effects due to their developing brains and thinner skulls, which allow deeper radiation penetration. Prolonged exposure, especially during critical developmental stages, could have lasting implications on cognitive function and overall health.
“It’s Okay to Be Off Grid If You’re a Kid”: An Alternative Approach
The open letter doesn’t just call for the removal of the ad but suggests a replacement. Modeled after TfL’s “Be Kind” and “Be Considerate To Others” campaigns, Arnold proposes a new slogan: “It’s Okay to Be Off Grid If You’re a Kid.” This alternative messaging, aimed at reducing the pressure to be constantly connected, supports the notion that children should feel empowered to disconnect from digital devices without fear of social repercussions.
Arnold notes that many young people feel pressured to conform to digital norms, fearing ridicule if they choose to limit screen time or remain “off-grid.” By introducing an alternative message, the campaign aims to encourage children to embrace healthy boundaries around technology, especially as studies continue to underscore the impact of excessive device use on children’s attention spans, sleep patterns, and mental health.
Celebrities and Experts Weigh In: A Call for Caution
In addition to Arnold, several high-profile figures have endorsed the letter, including Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, actress Sophie Winkleman, and musician Guy Chambers. They join health professionals and parents who are increasingly concerned about the effect of excessive device use and EMF exposure on children. By aligning with this campaign, these public figures are amplifying a message that resonates with growing concerns worldwide.
The letter further implores London’s Mayor to recognize that, while advancing technology offers benefits, it does not always equate to social progress—especially when it becomes an unavoidable part of everyday life. For young, impressionable minds, the pervasive presence of technology in public spaces can make it difficult to imagine alternatives, potentially leading to a generation that feels compelled to be “always on.”
Protecting Public Health and Our Children’s Future
This campaign shines a spotlight on the need for public awareness and transparent dialogue about the risks associated with 5G technology. While scientific debates continue, the precautionary principle suggests that until more is known, we should approach widespread 5G exposure with caution, especially for children. Beyond advertising, this means advocating for safer practices, promoting awareness, and encouraging children to balance screen time with off-grid activities.
A Call to Action: Advocating for Responsible Use of Technology
As technology rapidly advances, so must our understanding of its impact on health and society. Parents, educators, and policymakers are encouraged to promote a balanced approach to digital connectivity, prioritizing children’s well-being over the tech industry’s push for constant connectivity. The letter concludes with a call for responsible leadership—advocating that London’s Mayor and TfL consider the potential consequences of promoting technology without acknowledging the need for balance and awareness.
By supporting alternative messaging like “It’s Okay to Be Off Grid If You’re a Kid,” we can empower future generations to make informed choices, striking a healthy balance between embracing technology and prioritizing their mental and physical health.