What environmental regulations govern wastewater discharge?

The Clean Water Act is a fundamental piece of legislation that regulates the discharge of pollutants into U.S. waters and sets quality standards for surface waters. It provides a framework for the implementation of various water quality programs, making it essential for wastewater treatment facilities to comply with its guidelines to protect the nation’s water resources. Additionally, state-specific regulations complement the federal framework, often imposing stricter standards that address unique regional water quality concerns. This dual-layer approach ensures that wastewater discharge adheres to both national and localized environmental considerations, thereby promoting comprehensive protections for aquatic ecosystems and public health.

The other options either limit the scope of applicable regulations, such as focusing solely on a single act or local ordinances, or incorrectly pair regulations that do not directly pertain to wastewater discharge. Understanding the importance of both federal and state regulations guarantees adherence to comprehensive water quality standards.