What is meant by harmonization and convergence?
In an environmental context, the term “convergence” implies that the environmental policies of two players are moving closer together, as observed over a long period of time. “Harmonization” refers to a much more limited situation, in that it is observable when environmental standards in a particular field are virtually identical. Convergence should always be considered a process which is in movement, not finished and constantly changing. The dimension studied must therefore be temporal rather than spatial4. The harmonization of an environmental standard, on the other hand, is verifiable, and so implies a situation which has reached its term. In this essay, the concept of convergence will therefore be used in dealing with environmental policies in general. The concept of harmonization will be used when it is necessary to conclude whether there is a race to the bottom or to the top in a particular regulatory field. Harmonization of environmental standards within NAFTA Where internationa
