Nautical Term: CWA
Definition of CWA
The Clean Water Act (CWA), also known as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, is a United States environmental law that was passed on October 18, 1972. The primary objective of the Clean Water Act is to prevent and eliminate the discharge of pollutants into the waters of the United States.
For example, consider a manufacturing plant located near a river. The plant produces chemicals that, if released into the river, could harm aquatic life and make the water unsafe for human consumption. Under the Clean Water Act, the plant is required to obtain a permit from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before discharging any pollutants into the river. The permit sets limits on the amount and type of pollutants that can be discharged. The plant is required to monitor its discharges and report any violations to the EPA. If the plant fails to obtain a permit or violates the terms of its permit, the EPA can take enforcement action against the plant, including fines, penalties, and other remedies.
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