Effluent Trading in Watersheds Policy Statement

Summary

r. . ~ EFF'u.iENT TRADING i:N WATERsHEDS Achieves equal or greater reduction of pollution for the same or less cost. POUCY STATEMENT . c~ an economic incentive for d~hargers to ,go beyolld mioimum pollution reducuon and also encourages pollution prevenuon and the use of inoovative technologies. In response to President Oitton's Rdn~llling Environmmlal RlgulaJion (M2rcb 1995), Cm reduce cumulative pollutant loading, improve water quality, accommodate EPA strongly piOIDOtcs tbe use of diJuem ttad.ing to achieve wiler quality objectives and growth and prevent fulure environmental degradation. standards. 'Illi$ sUtemeut communicates EPA's policy on effluent trading in watersheds, discusses !he beneOII of trading; pn:seuiS an explanation of several types of effluenl rnding, and Can address . the broader environmental goals within a trading area, e.g . , outl~ how EPA will be e!ICOUJ"38ing trading. This policy is Agency guidance only llllf does ecosystem protection, ecological restoration, improved wildlifr habitat, oot c!stablish or affect legal rights or obligations. It does not establish a biming oorm and is not eodang~ species protection, etc, finally determinative of the issues addressed. Agency decisiom in any particular cue will be made by applying the law and regulatiODS on the basis of specifiC facts when permits are issued . · Social Benefits: Policy Encourages dialogue among stakeholders and fosters concerted and holistic solutions for watersheds with multiple sources of water quality impairment. EPA will actively support and promote effluent trading within watersheds to achieve water quality objectives, iocluding water ~ty standards, to the extent aumorized by the Clean Water Act and implementing regula1ioos. EPA will work cooperatively with key stakeholders EXplanation oC Different Types of Effluent Trading to fand sensible, innovative ways to meet water quality standards quiclcer and at less overall cost