"The production of a liquid fuel from shale to displace fuels from important component in the overall U. S. energy policy. It is anticipated that development of synthetic fuels will accelerate rapidly during the next few years. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for ensuring that the designs of first generation synthetic fuel plants provide for adequate protection of the environment. At present , however, the EPA has not completed the research necessary to support promulgation of new regulations applicable to this industry under the air, water, solid wasteland toxic substances programs of the Agency. To serve the need for protection of the environment during the period preceding such promulgation and to help to avoid costly delays in the commercialization of a sinful process due to uncertainties concerning environmental technologies, the EPA is developing a set of Pollution Control Guidance Documents."