Final answer:
A No Discharge Zone (NDZ) is an area where discharge of vessel sewage is prohibited to protect water quality and marine life. The EPA, along with state and local governments, enforces NDZ regulations under the Clean Water Act.
Step-by-step explanation:
A No Discharge Zone (NDZ) refers to a designated body of water where the discharge of treated and untreated sewage from vessels is prohibited. NDZs are established to protect the water quality and reduce the impact of sewage contaminants on marine environments, aquatic life, and human health. In an NDZ, vessel operators are required to retain their sewage onboard until it can be pumped out at an appropriate onshore facility. This measure is particularly important in sensitive areas where the accumulation of pollutants could have adverse effects on ecosystems, such as coral reefs, marinas, and swimming beaches.
Designating an area as an NDZ involves both state and federal regulations. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in partnership with state and local governments, is responsible for implementing NDZs by issuing necessary regulations under the Clean Water Act. Once established, these regions are subject to monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance with the NDZ requirements.