The fourth quarter of 2008 offers numerous shifts and changes in environmental and compliance issues. The EPA is moving away from strict regulatory requirements in favor of voluntary efforts that may or may not be enough for state and local officials. 
 
Looking ahead, local jurisdictions will continue experiencing pressure to enforce their existing rules, while funding for infrastructure upgrades will be slow and partly inadequate. Drought conditions could likely impact the cost and availability of water in some areas of the country. Wash formulas and their chemical components will continue to dwell in the spotlight. As the ...