Protecting North Carolina’s environment while ensuring the state can continue to grow at the speed of business is a fundamental balance the NC Chamber advocates for every day, and one that requires strong collaboration between regulators and the business community. 

That message was front and center as NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Secretary Reid Wilson addressed attendees at the NC Chamber’s 2026 Environmental Compliance Conference in Raleigh. Wilson outlined DEQ’s environmental priorities and emphasized the Department’s focus on transparency, efficiency, and continued partnership with employers to support both environmental protection and economic competitiveness. 

“Protecting our environment and supporting a strong economy go hand in hand,” Wilson said. 

Four Key Priorities for DEQ 

Wilson outlined four primary areas of focus for DEQ as the agency works to support growth across the state: 

1. Supporting Western North Carolina’s recovery and preparing for future disasters
   DEQ continues to play a central role in helping mountain communities recover from Hurricane Helene and prepare for future extreme weather. The Department is supporting restoration of water and wastewater systems and focused on rebuilding infrastructure that is stronger and more resilient to future storms.  
2. Reducing exposure to PFAS
   Addressing PFAS remains a top priority for DEQ. Wilson noted that DEQ is prioritizing science-based decision-making while minimizing long-term costs for communities and ratepayers. Wilson emphasized collaboration with industry and local partners to develop practical, effective solutions. 
3. Strengthening statewide resilience
   From the mountains to the coast, DEQ is advancing programs that help communities better prepare for severe weather and infrastructure strain. State initiatives are providing local governments with data, planning tools, and funding to support long-term resilience and economic stability.  
4. Improving permitting processes
   Wilson reported that the Department is making significant progress on its permitting transformation initiative, moving from paper-based systems to modern online applications to support a more efficient, predictable permitting process. Over the past year, the percentage of interactive online permit applications has grown substantially, with a goal of reaching full digital capability soon. These improvements are designed to increase transparency, reduce processing times, and make it easier for businesses to navigate requirements. 

Supporting Economic Growth Through Partnership 

From timely permitting that enables construction to investments in water infrastructure and protecting North Carolina’s environment, DEQ plays an important role in supporting growth across the state.  

North Carolina’s continued success, Wilson noted, depends on strong partnerships among business leaders, government agencies, and local communities. “Our success as a state depends on strong collaboration,” Wilson said. “I’m optimistic about what we can accomplish together, even in uncertain times, because I know that you all are dedicated to the success of the state.” 

The NC Chamber thanks Secretary Wilson and the DEQ team for their partnership and for joining this year’s Environmental Compliance Conference. Conversations like these help protect and preserve everything that makes our state so special while supporting a strong, competitive economy. 

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