What does the Clean Water Act prohibit regarding pollutants?

The Clean Water Act is focused on regulating the discharge of pollutants into the waters of the United States, emphasizing the importance of maintaining water quality for the protection of public health and the environment. Specifically, it prohibits the discharge of pollutants from a point source—such as a pipe or a drain—without a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. This requirement ensures that any discharges are controlled and that the quantity and quality of pollutants are within acceptable limits to protect aquatic ecosystems and human health.

The emphasis on point sources is crucial because these discharges can introduce significant amounts of contaminants into water bodies, directly impacting waterways, habitats, and communities. By requiring permits, the Clean Water Act facilitates monitoring, regulation, and accountability for those discharging pollutants, thus ensuring that measures are in place to minimize environmental impact.

In contrast, other choices presented do not correctly reflect the scope of the Clean Water Act. For example, while discharging pollutants into state waters is regulated, it is the act of discharging from a point source without a permit that is specifically prohibited under the Clean Water Act.