Quality standards in polycentric systems: A case of shipping

摘要: Abstract This article contributes to the literature on transnational environmental governance (TEG). Polycentricity is a popular conceptual approach in TEG, but coordination polycentric systems remains largely unexplored. We put forward model of quality standards as productive links between different orders systems. Existing theories distinguish regulative, institutional, and normalizing functioning standards. develop an integrative highlighting mechanisms that rely these three functions The case TEG shipping used illustrate how function not only soft rules, also institutionalized references shared conventions, enabling across levels scales. paper draws attention limits regulatory standardization, outlining practical value can be gained from emphasizing normative work associated with promulgation