What is the significance of the Clean Water Act?

The Clean Water Act is significant because it aims to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation's waters by preventing point and nonpoint pollution sources. The Act establishes the structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into U.S. waters and regulates quality standards for surface waters. Its primary goal is to protect and enhance the quality of water resources, ensuring that they remain safe for fishing, recreation, and other uses, as well as to protect aquatic ecosystems. This broad and impactful regulatory framework underscores the importance of clean water for public health and environmental sustainability, distinguishing it from options that focus on narrower or less relevant issues.