Maryland Department of Environmental Quality
Mission
The mission of the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is to protect
and restore the quality of Maryland’s air, water, and land resources, while
fostering smart growth, economic development, healthy and safe communities, and
quality environmental education for the benefit of the environment, public
health, and future generations.
Vision
MDE’s vision is to ensure a clean environment and excellent quality of life
for Marylanders.
Goals
MDE has the following seven broad goals to measure its progress in achieving
its mission and vision:
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Promoting Land Redevelopment and Community Revitalization
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Ensuring Safe and Adequate Drinking Water
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Reducing Maryland Citizens’ Exposure to Hazards
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Ensuring the Safety of Fish and Shellfish Harvested in Maryland.
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Improving and Protecting Maryland’s Water Quality
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Ensuring the Air is Safe to Breathe
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Providing Excellent Customer Services to Achieve Environmental
Protection.
Values
MDE employees are:
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Credible and have the public’s confidence;
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Supportive of teamwork, and empowered by management;
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Innovative and resourceful;
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Customer-service-oriented;
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Professional and proud of their work;
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Responsive to their stakeholders; and
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Supportive of environmental stewardship.
MDE Customers and Stakeholders
MDE’s customers include Maryland citizens who expect protection and
restoration of the environment; businesses, governments, and individuals who are
applying for permits and receiving technical assistance; and technical personnel
including well drillers, sanitarians, waste water operators, and asbestos
contractors who require certification. Other key stakeholders include
environmental and public health advocacy groups, citizen groups, educators,
scientists, and natural resource users.
Beginnings
In 1987 the Maryland Department of the Environment was created to protect and
preserve the states natural resources. In addition to restoring Maryland
environment and safeguarding the environmental health of Maryland citizens,
MDE’s duties encompass enforcement and regulation, long-term planning and
research, and technical assistance to industry and communities for pollution,
growth issues, and environmental emergencies.