Command-and-Control

The Traditional Regulatory Policies, also called Command-and control policies, have been used to address pollution.  While these policies are basically blanket solutions for industries with pollution problems they are not always the most efficient methods available; however, they are still widely used solely or as an integral part of other regulations.  

Design Standard is one traditional regulation that is often imposed.  These standards reflect current technology and give specific rules about what type of pollution treatment must be used (a specific smokestack scrubber). A downside to this is that it's hard for any entity, especially a centralized government agency, to stay on the cutting edge of pollution control technology.

Performance Standard is another common traditional regulation.  These standards set an exact limit for the amount of pollution allowed. Or more often, they can set a limit on emissions within a certain time period, which doesn't guarantee a reduction in pollution (a performance standard of "x" pollution units per hour might not decrease pollution if the firm is allowed to run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).