Ed Potosnak has been nominated by Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill to serve as the next commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). If confirmed, Potosnak will oversee efforts to improve flood resilience, address PFAS chemical contamination, and clean up polluted sites across the state. The incoming Sherrill-Caldwell Administration plans for the NJDEP to streamline permitting processes and support economic growth while maintaining environmental protections.
“Ed Potosnak is a proven leader who will be critical in our efforts to preserve New Jersey’s protect residents from flooding and extreme weather and remediate contaminated sites. He will bring his experience as a licensed contractor to the department to prioritize cutting through red tape and reducing permitting times. Ed has a strong track record of bringing people to the table to develop solutions that work best for the communities they serve. I look forward to working with Ed, energy and business professionals, and advocates to protect our environment while growing our economy,” said Sherrill.
Potosnak commented on his nomination: “Throughout her career, Governor-elect Sherrill has delivered for New Jerseyans on key environmental issues like flood mitigation, cleaning up toxic PFAS and Brownfields sites, and investing in cheap, clean energy like solar. As a licensed contractor, I understand the struggles that business owners face while trying to get state permits, and as Commissioner, I look forward to streamlining that process so we’re ensuring government is being responsive to job creators while protecting our state’s natural resources.”
Potosnak is currently executive director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. He also serves as co-chair of the New Jersey Keep It Green Coalition and as New Jersey State Lead for the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed. His public service includes an appointment by Gov. Phil Murphy to the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Board. In addition, he serves as a Councilmember in Franklin Township (Somerset County) and previously was president and member of his local school board.
Earlier in his career, Potosnak taught high school chemistry and ran a home improvement company as a licensed contractor. He received an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship which allowed him to contribute to national science and education policy on Capitol Hill.
Potosnak holds degrees in chemistry (bachelor’s) and education (master’s) from Rutgers University. He lectures at Rutgers on public service and sustainability.
