Why Does Terminology Matter

It is important, however, to note that the terms used by policy makers (and in law) are not consistent. For example, under EU law binding air quality standards are termed limit values. However, the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) Directive, which regulates industrial pollution, uses the term environmental quality standard and makes clear that the limit values are environmental quality standards. Both technical experts and lawyers, therefore, can use different terms in similar contexts. This variation not only can be found between media (e.g., air and water standards) but also can occur within a single medium. 

Equally, the same term can be used in different contexts. In the United Kingdom, air quality standards are adopted by government, but these are not legally binding. However, legally binding values referred to as standards can be adopted under EU law (e.g., the Dangerous Substances Directive). 

Environmental and Human Health Standards for Water and Soil 

Clearly, this variation in the terminology is a potential problem in public engagement. We do not propose to set out new definitions but simply to highlight this difficulty in the language used to increase the awareness of those involved in standard setting. 

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