PhD student: Dr S.B.J. Van Eekert

Promotors: Mrs Prof I. Samoy, Prof I. Giesen

Duration: 1/10/2021 - 24/9/2031

PhD defence: Leuven, 6/1/2026

Abstract:

Over the last decades, citizens have become increasingly aware of the environmental dangers that modern evolutions can yield. For example, industry can wrongfully pollute a certain home environment; employers can illegally expose their employees to toxic substances or neighbors can use dangerous substances in their garden management. Those occurrences have the potential to cause harm, but most often do not do so immediately. The way in which environmental degradation and toxic exposure will harm an individual is often difficult to predict on the long term. Extracontractual liability law does not provide relief for future uncertain harm. But, what about the current harmful consequences that result from the fear of the risk of future uncertain harm? How should a judge approach the consequences of living with a sword of Damocles above your head?