COMARE meaning

In legal practice, COMARE refers to the UK expert committee whose reports are frequently cited in environmental, public health and planning matters concerning radiation exposure. It reviews evidence on the health effects of natural and man-made radiation in the environment (including exposures associated with nuclear installations, industrial activities and certain medical practices) and issues independent, peer‑reviewed advice. COMARE is not a regulator and does not set legal standards; its assessments inform policy and regulatory decision‑making under environmental permitting and radioactive substances regimes, and are often relied on as expert evidence in judicial review, planning inquiries and personal injury/toxic tort claims involving causation and risk. The term is not defined in legislation or case law; it is a descriptive reference to the Committee on Medical Aspects of Radiation in the Environment. Members are appointed for their expertise (for example, in medicine, epidemiology and radiation protection). COMARE advises the UK Government and the devolved administrations, and usage is consistent across England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. In Ireland, COMARE has no role; analogous scientific advice is provided by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Radiological Protection and relevant health authorities.