North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead stewardship agency for the protection of North Carolina's environmental resources. The organization has offices throughout the state and administers regulatory programs designed to protect air quality, water quality, and public health. DEQ works to advance an all-of-the-above energy strategy tailored to North Carolina's needs. The department offers technical assistance to businesses, farmers, local governments, and the public, and encourages responsible environmental behavior through education programs in DEQ facilities and the state's school system. DEQ's mission touches the lives of all North Carolinians by enhancing and ensuring quality of life through environmental protection, education, and regulatory oversight across multiple environmental domains including air quality, coastal management, marine fisheries, waste management, water resources, and environmental education.