Water quality standards are designed to protect which of the following?

Water quality standards are established to ensure that water bodies are safe for both humans and the ecosystems they support. These standards take into account the health and safety of humans, which includes preventing exposure to harmful contaminants, and the health of aquatic life, which involves maintaining the ecological balance within aquatic environments.

By aiming to protect both human health and aquatic life, these standards facilitate a holistic approach to water management. This is essential not just for recreational activities or consumption but also for sustaining biodiversity and promoting ecosystem services that benefit all living organisms. Protecting both aspects is necessary to maintain overall water quality and environmental health.

While some choices may emphasize other specific areas, such as industrial waste management or aesthetic quality, they do not encompass the broader objectives outlined in comprehensive water quality standards, which aim to ensure safety and sustainability for all users of water resources.