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U.S. Department of Energy
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Cost-effective NPDES permitting strategies

Journal Article · · Pollution Engineering
OSTI ID:116292
Until the mid 1980s, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) relied on technology-based control of pollutants. This required all dischargers within an industrial class to meet a minimum level of treatment. Although it led to significant improvements in water quality, many problems remained, including failure to address the cumulative effects of point and non-point sources. To remedy this situation, EPA switched to a control program based on water quality. Though more effective than its predecessor, this program also has problems. It may cause companies to spend millions of dollars to comply with unwarranted or inappropriate effluent limitations. Fortunately, there are strategies to achieve more cost-effective permitting and compliance. Sophisticated managers and their consultants can successfully negotiate favorable permit levels by understanding the difference between technology-based controls and water quality permitting, knowing what permit writers are looking for and being proactive. Doing so will save time and money and ensure compliance.
OSTI ID:
116292
Journal Information:
Pollution Engineering, Journal Name: Pollution Engineering Journal Issue: 9 Vol. 27; ISSN PLENBW; ISSN 0032-3640
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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