Clean Water Act (CWA)

The Clean Water Act (CWA) is a U.S. law designed to protect and restore the quality of the nation’s waters, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. It regulates pollution discharges into these bodies of water, requiring permits for industrial and municipal wastewater discharges. The CWA sets water quality standards to ensure safe and clean water for both ecosystems and human use. In the maritime context, it helps safeguard marine environments from pollution from ships, oil spills, and other maritime activities, promoting healthier oceans and waterways.