How is 'Oil' defined in the context of the Comprehensive Water Act (CWA)?

In the context of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CWA), 'Oil' is broadly defined to encompass a wide variety of petroleum products and any substances that are mixed with waste. This definition is significant because it captures not just crude oil itself but also includes different forms of petroleum, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, and other hazardous materials that may be derived from oil or mixed with waste materials.

By using such an inclusive definition, the CWA is able to address and regulate different types of oil spills and related incidents effectively, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pollution prevention and response. This broad definition allows for a more extensive coverage of potential contaminants that could harm aquatic environments, thereby aligning with the Act's goals of protecting water quality and public health.

Other definitions, which focus narrowly on specific kinds of oil—like just crude oil or synthetic oils—would not be adequate to tackle the multitude of scenarios involving oil pollution as outlined in the CWA.