What is the main objective of the Clean Water Act (CWA)?

The main objective of the Clean Water Act (CWA) is to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation’s waters, ensuring that they are swimmable and fishable. This legislation focuses on regulating the discharge of pollutants into navigable waters and establishing quality standards for surface waters. Through these means, the CWA aims to protect aquatic ecosystems, public health, and overall water quality, which are vital for both environmental health and human use.

While reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy sources, and regulating waste management practices are important environmental issues, they fall under different regulatory frameworks and laws that are not the primary focus of the CWA. The act's specific aim is centered on the quality of water bodies, rather than broader environmental goals or waste regulations.