The Directorate of Environment created in 1995 and it is entrusted with the co-ordination of major projects like pollution abatement in Cauvery, Vaigai and Tamiraparani rivers and in the waterways of Chennai City. Besides the National Lake Conservation Programme, Coastal Zone Management and all other significant environment protection efforts except those dealt by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board are the main responsibility of this Directorate.

The Directorate is headed by a Director in the rank of Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests who is assisted by an Additional Director in the rank of Conservator of Forests. The sanctioned strength of the Directorate is 34 which include three Deputy Directors, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Assistant Environmental Engineer, Accounts Officer, Sociologist, Forest Ranger, two Assistant Engineers and 22 ministerial staff.

Functions of the Department

• Creating Environment awareness in schools and colleges through Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), Eco-clubs and National Green Corp (NGC).
• Eco-restoration activities.
• Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation initiatives.
• Implementing the provisions of the CRZ Notifications.
• Coastal Zone Management.
• Preparation of Environmental Management Plans for towns.
• Dissemination of Information on Environment related subjects by ENVIS.
• Synergy with Universities/Research Institutes to build capacity for research and training.