What is the purpose of the Clean Water Act?

The Clean Water Act primarily serves to regulate the discharge of pollutants into the nation's surface waters, including rivers, lakes, and streams. This legislation was enacted to restore and maintain the integrity of the water bodies in the United States by controlling point sources of pollution, which are specific, identifiable sources, such as industrial outfalls or wastewater treatment plants.

The Act outlines a framework for the establishment of water quality standards and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting process, which requires facilities to obtain permits for discharging any pollutants into waters of the United States. This regulatory framework is essential for ensuring that the water quality meets safe standards for recreational use, aquatic life, and drinking water sources.

By focusing on reducing the amount of pollutants that can enter surface waters, the Clean Water Act plays a vital role in protecting ecosystems, improving water quality, and ultimately safeguarding public health. This goal distinctly aligns with the purpose of the Act, thus confirming the choice regarding its regulatory focus.