The 2005-2006 edition of the Illinois Environmental Briefing Book outlines a unified, two-year vision for environmental and conservation policies in Illinois. The Briefing Book articles were compiled by a coalition of environmental organizations. The coalition worked together to develop the agenda of priority issues that are written about here. The Briefing Book provides specific expertise on these important issues from organizations and individuals that are knowledgeable on subjects like wetland protection, energy efficiency and water pollution. It also contains a directory of organizations and contacts for further information.

The overview of issues presented in the Briefing Book is a compilation of the most urgent natural resource and community health issues facing Illinois. It clearly expresses the importance and timeliness of addressing these problems while maintaining sensitivity to the state's fiscal limitations. Tough decisions will be made about what the state's priorities are. The book can be used as the environmental community's tool to effectively highlight our priorities and open debate on these issues.