Which agency is responsible for environmental protection in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the agency tasked with overseeing environmental protection in the state. DEQ plays a critical role in enforcing environmental laws and regulations, managing natural resources, and ensuring compliance with federal and state environmental standards. This includes addressing issues such as air and water quality, waste management, and energy conservation.

The DEQ's responsibilities are comprehensive, covering various environmental concerns that affect the health of both the natural environment and citizen well-being. It also works on initiatives related to climate change, land management, and protecting endangered species, all of which are essential for sustainable development in North Carolina.

The other agencies listed have specific roles that do not primarily focus on environmental protection. For instance, the Department of Health is more concerned with public health issues, while the Wildlife Resources Commission focuses on the conservation of wildlife and their habitats. The Environmental Protection Agency mentioned in one of the options does not specifically represent a North Carolina entity, as the federal EPA oversees environmental matters at the national level. Therefore, the Department of Environmental Quality is the appropriate agency charged with the vital mission of safeguarding North Carolina's environment.