The paper describes one component of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) efforts to assist state and local environmental agencies and its own regional offices in response to their increased responsibilities for planning, evaluating, and approving control approaches for reducing emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). This component is EPA's air toxics control 'situation room'. This is a complex and difficult job, and EPA's guidance and assistance are often sought. Hundreds of sources emit thousands of ozone-producing and toxic pollutants in the U.S. A major concern is the possibility that some of these compounds may cause cancer. In addition, these toxic air pollutants damage materials and cause crop/forest losses. Thus, state and local environmental officials must also assume responsibility for protecting people and the environment from the effects of these pollutants.

"Presented at 197th National ACS Meeting, DAllas, TX 4/11/89." EPA/600/D-89/088. PB89-223960. Microfiche.