Created in 1989, the US Department of Energy's Office of Environmental Management mission is to address the nation's environmental legacy from the Manhattan Project through the end of the Cold War. This legacy includes some of the world's most dangerous radioactive sites with large amounts of radioactive wastes, spent nuclear fuel, excess plutonium and uranium, and contaminated facilities, soil and groundwater.
EM's mission is to clean up and protect communities that supported defense production programs and government-sponsored nuclear energy research. EM plays a key role in cleaning the environment, contributing to national security priorities, investing in the future and aiding community efforts to build strong economies, growing jobs and preparing for a clean energy future.
Acquisition
Budget & Performance
Communication and Engagement
Safety, Security & Quality Assurance
Science & Technology
Areas of Focus
Deactivation & Decommissioning
EM supports the deactivation and decontamination (D&D) of excess contaminated DOE buildings and facilities to support new end uses and future missions.
Excess Materials & Radioactive Waste Management
The safe management and disposition of waste is a critical component of EM's cleanup program. Learn about the types of waste being managed here.
Packaging & Transportation
Safe packaging and transportation of materials is crucial to the success of DOE operations. EM transports about 5,000 shipments of radioactive, hazardous and non-hazardous materials annually.
Soil & Groundwater Remediation
EM manages one of the largest groundwater and soil remediation efforts in the world. The primary goal of EM's Office of Subsurface Closure is to expedite closure of major soil and groundwater sites and waste units. Learn more about this important part of the clean up mission.
Tank Waste Processing & Tank Closure
EM manages and operates nuclear facilities to process and dispose of about 90 millions gallons of liquid radioactive waste.
Regulatory Compliance
EM cleanup sites are subject to federal environmental laws and state environmental regulations.
Highlights
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DOE initiative to lease EM land for development of carbon free energy generationDecember 16, 2024
Latest News
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Cleanup Sites
Contact Us
The Office of Environmental Management
U.S. Department of Energy
ATTENTION: Office of Environmental Management
1000 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20585
Open Public Comment Periods