Point Source
A single, identifiable source of pollution, such as a discharge pipe, smokestack, or factory outlet—the kind regulators can permit and measure directly.
Related terms
Non-Point Source Pollution that comes from many diffuse sources rather than one identifiable origin—like agricultural runoff, urban stormwater, or atmospheric deposition. Source of Pollution The origin point or activity that introduces a contaminant into the environment. Sources are categorized as point sources (single, identifiable) or non-point sources (diffuse). Point-Source Pollution Area An area degraded by a single, identifiable source of pollution—such as a specific factory's smokestack or a specific wastewater discharge pipe. Wastewater Discharge The release of used water—from homes, factories, or treatment plants—into rivers, lakes, oceans, or soil. Industrial wastewater can contain chemicals, heavy metals, or biological waste. Smokestack A tall industrial chimney that releases combustion gases and pollutants into the air. Often the visible point source for a facility's emissions.