In June 1997, the responsibility of Egypt's first full time Minister for Environmental Affairs was assigned as stated in the Presidential Decree no.275/1997. From thereon, the new ministry has focused, in close collaboration with the national and international development partners, on defining environmental policies, setting priorities and implementing initiatives within a context of sustainable development.

• Formulating environmental policies.
• Preparing the necessary plans for Environmental protection and Environmental development projects, following up their implementation, and undertaking Pilot Projects.
• The National Authority in charge of promoting environmental relations between Egypt and other States, as well as Regional and International Organizations.