What does the acronym "NPDES" stand for?

The acronym "NPDES" stands for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. This important regulatory program was established under the Clean Water Act in the United States to control water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants to waters of the United States.

The purpose of the NPDES is to prevent the introduction of harmful pollutants into water bodies, thereby protecting public health and the environment. It requires facilities that discharge pollutants to obtain permits that enforce specific limitations on the types and quantities of pollutants that can be released. These permits are vital tools for ensuring compliance with federal water quality standards.

Understanding the full name is crucial for wastewater treatment operators as it underscores the system's focus on pollutant discharge, emphasizing that the primary goal is the elimination of harmful substances before they can enter the natural water system.