The Clean Water Act (CWA) is the primary regulation governing water pollution. It was designed to maintain the integrity of the nation’s waters through treatment works like wastewater treatment and maintaining the integrity of wetlands. It is one of America’s most influential environmental laws and coordinates with state governments to implement water regulations.
The passage of the Clean Water Act dramatically improved the nation’s waters and decreased water pollution. It is among many pieces of legislation, like the Clean Air Act, to improve the environment, marking the shift of American mindset towards protecting the environment.