EPAProposed Rule

Recognition Awards Under the Clean Water Act [W-01-01-I-A-2]

Environment

Summary

The EPA is proposing a new program to recognize and award organizations, businesses, and individuals who make outstanding efforts to protect and clean up America's water resources under the Clean Water Act. This recognition program aims to encourage more people and companies to take voluntary action to reduce water pollution and improve water quality in their communities.

Key Points

  • 1The EPA wants to create an official awards program to honor groups doing exceptional work to protect rivers, lakes, streams, and coastal waters
  • 2Organizations could receive recognition for activities like reducing pollution, restoring wetlands, improving water quality, or cleaning up contaminated sites
  • 3The program is voluntary—companies and groups would apply to be considered, and the EPA would select winners based on their environmental achievements
  • 4Recognition could help winning organizations gain visibility and credibility, potentially attracting more support and funding for their water protection efforts
  • 5This is a proposed rule, meaning the EPA is seeking public feedback before making a final decision on how the awards program would work

Impact Assessment

If you are a manufacturer or business, this means you can voluntarily participate in an EPA recognition program that acknowledges your water protection efforts without imposing new compliance obligations.

Impact Level
Routine
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

None

Who is Affected
ManufacturersSmall BusinessesState GovernmentsFarmers

Key Dates

Published

March 18, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
40 CFR Part 122
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (EPA-HQ-OW-2002-0009)

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.