Typological Issues in Understanding Standards

It is important to recognize that there are different types of standards Table 2.1 provides some examples of different terms that have been used. This list does not include the technical terms that are sometimes used within that process (such as predicted no effect concentration, PNEC), but those that tend to be used in public documents. 

Viewed as a number that should be reached. It may or may not be mandatory. 

An aspirational objective, usually long-term, guiding action, but not mandatory. 

A level that should not be breached. In EU law, a limit value is legally binding. 

A level that is taken as an indicator of quality but is not binding. 

---