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.
Related terms
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. Surface Water Water that sits on top of the land—rivers, lakes, streams, reservoirs. Contrasted with groundwater, which is held underground in aquifers. Discharge Monitoring Report A required record submitted by facilities holding water discharge permits, documenting the volume and content of pollutants they release into surface waters. Discharge Permit A legal authorization issued by the EPA or a state agency that allows a facility to release a specific pollutant up to a defined limit, usually with monitoring and reporting requirements. Federally known as an NPDES permit for water.