Bureau of Safety and Sustainability

Illinois EPA created the Bureau of Safety and Sustainability to strengthen our commitment to protecting public health, promoting environmental equity, and fostering a sustainable future for Illinois. This Bureau brings together seven key departments that work collaboratively to serve communities across the state.

• The Office of Community Relations ensures transparency and public involvement in environmental decisions. By providing clear, timely information and opportunities for public input, this office helps build trust and understanding between the Agency and Illinois residents. 
• The Office of Emergency Response safeguards residents by training for and responding to environmental emergencies involving hazardous substances and other contaminants. Its specialized team coordinates with local, state, and federal partners to protect public health and natural resources during critical incidents.
• The Office of Energy drives clean energy innovation and equity by investing in projects that reduce energy burdens and promote efficiency statewide. Through partnerships and programs, this office supports renewable energy, energy efficiency, resiliency, and sustainable infrastructure.
• The Office of Environmental Education empowers residents of all ages with knowledge and skills to protect Illinois’ environment and foster lifelong stewardship. From classroom programs to community events, this office helps build awareness and inspire action for a cleaner and more sustainable future. In partnership with the University of Illinois, it also provides free, NGSS-aligned science curricula for formal classroom use and informal learning.
• The Office of Environmental Justice promotes fair treatment and meaningful participation for all communities, with a focus on those most vulnerable to environmental impacts. This office works to ensure equity in environmental programs and policies across the state.
• The Illinois EPA Laboratory is the state’s primary environmental testing facility, nationally accredited by NELAP and recognized by U.S. EPA Region 5 as the State Primacy Laboratory. Each year, it analyzes about 70,000 samples, including drinking water, wastewater, soil, surface water, and fish, covering over 700 analytes to support decisions that protect Illinois’ environment and public health. The lab also provides emergency testing for IEPA's Office of Emergency Response and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency during spills or disasters. Additionally, the Division of Laboratories includes the Laboratory Accreditation Unit, which audits and accredits commercial environmental labs and assists with testing and accreditation questions.
• The Office of Toxicity Assessment evaluates human health and ecological risks from hazardous substances and develops protective standards. This office provides scientific expertise that informs cleanup goals and ensures Illinois EPA decisions are based on sound risk assessment. 

Together, these programs advance safety, sustainability, and equity while ensuring Illinois remains a healthy and vibrant place to live.

The following directory lists department managers along with their contact information.