What is required from treatment facilities under the Clean Water Act?

The Clean Water Act focuses on regulating the discharge of pollutants into the waters of the United States and ensuring water quality standards. Under the Act, treatment facilities are required to obtain National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for any discharge of pollutants into navigable waters. This permitting process is essential because it establishes specific discharge limits, monitoring requirements, and other conditions to protect water quality.

The NPDES permits ensure that the facilities are operating in compliance with federal and state water quality standards, thereby preventing harmful pollutants from affecting waterways, aquatic life, and human health. By obtaining these permits, treatment facilities help to maintain clean and safe water for the environment and communities.

While the other choices may contribute to broader environmental and sustainability initiatives, they are not explicitly required by the Clean Water Act for treatment facilities operating under its regulations. For instance, ISO certification focuses on standards for quality management systems and does not specifically pertain to water discharge, while green building practices and public education on conservation do contribute to overall environmental goals but are not mandated under the Clean Water Act for treatment facilities.