Which permit program regulates discharges into navigable waters under the Clean Water Act?

Which permit program regulates discharges into navigable waters under the Clean Water Act?

• A. National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
• B. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
• C. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination and Emission System
• D. National Pollution Discharge Emission System

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that discharges to navigable waters are controlled through a permit program that sets limits on pollutants from specific sources. Under the Clean Water Act, this permit program is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. It issues and enforces permits that require dischargers to meet pollution limits, implement controls, monitor discharges, and report data. The focus on pollutants (not general emissions) and the exact terminology distinguish this program from other phrased options. The other names put “Pollution” or “Emission” in the title, which aren’t the formal name of the program under the Act.

The key idea is that discharges to navigable waters are controlled through a permit program that sets limits on pollutants from specific sources. Under the Clean Water Act, this permit program is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. It issues and enforces permits that require dischargers to meet pollution limits, implement controls, monitor discharges, and report data. The focus on pollutants (not general emissions) and the exact terminology distinguish this program from other phrased options. The other names put “Pollution” or “Emission” in the title, which aren’t the formal name of the program under the Act.