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Scientific Uncertainty: An Insuperable Obstacle to Compensation for Environmental Causes of Ill Health?

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  • Chris Miller

    (School of Environment & Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, M6 6PU, UK)

Abstract

In this paper, I review the conceptual and legal obstacles faced by those who seek redress for health detriment which is though to be environmental in origin. I use two case studies concerned with radiation: one is related to energy production (paternal pre-conceptional irradiation of workers at a nuclear fuel reprocessing plant), the other involves electricity distribution (the alleged link between leukaemia and power cables). Judicial approaches to scientific uncertainty inherent in these two cases are examined. The more science points to a hitherto unimagined range of threats to human health, the fewer grounds remain for confidence in the capacity of tort to secure appropriate compensation for the putative victims.

Suggested Citation

  • Chris Miller, 2000. "Scientific Uncertainty: An Insuperable Obstacle to Compensation for Environmental Causes of Ill Health?," Energy & Environment, , vol. 11(2), pages 193-205, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:engenv:v:11:y:2000:i:2:p:193-205
    DOI: 10.1260/0958305001500013
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