EPA’s National Requirements to Protect U.S. Waterways from Pollutants Discharged by Vessels

Oct 4, 2024 | Home

EPA has announced the finalization of national discharge standards to control the release of pollutants and invasive species from approximately 85,000 vessels operating in U.S. waters. These standards, issued through EPA’s Vessel Incidental Discharge National Standards of Performance final rule, address discharges that occur with normal operation of large vessels. EPA’s final rule will help address harmful pollutants, including bacteria, pathogens, oil, grease, and metals while reducing the spread of invasive species that can damage ecosystems and infrastructure.