What does NPDES stand for?

The acronym NPDES stands for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. This program was established under the Clean Water Act and is administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It focuses on regulating and controlling the discharge of pollutants into U.S. waters by issuing permits to point sources of pollution, such as industrial facilities and municipal sewage treatment plants. The goal is to protect water quality by ensuring that discharges do not exceed certain limits, thus safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and public health.

The distinction of using "Pollutant" rather than "Pollution" in the name emphasizes that it is the specific contaminants being managed and not just the broader issue of pollution as a whole. Understanding this terminology is crucial for professionals in the field of geology and environmental science, particularly when working on projects related to water quality and regulatory compliance.