It took a long time to the scientific community to determine the causes of acid rain. It also took a lot of time to realize the importance of the problem and the fact that man was causing it. Gases emissions which are mixed with humidity in the atmosphere are the major cause of acid rain. Now that we know that the problem exists and what causes it, we need to control and hopefully reverse the effect of acid rain.

Acid rain affects plants, animals and mankind and should be taken very seriously. Acid rain is one of the biggest environmental issues worldwide today. The effects of acid rain on trees cause a major threat to the entire balance in nature. In case of important trees depletion caused by acid rain, the effects on the entire animal kingdom would be disastrous.

Trees are a natural resource. They provide wood, are the major source of oxygen and provide shelter to wildlife. As trees are destroyed by acid rain, the animals which depend on them for survival are also affected. It is a vicious cycle that self- perpetuates.

On the same level, contaminated lake waters by acid rain can cause the imbalance and death of its inhabitants. If the amount of fish diminishes, the main source of food for the birds is destroyed. Furthermore, if a region is submitted to important quantities of acid rain, the fish eggs may die before even hatching thus reducing the quantity of food available.

Scientists are conducting studies to monitor the effects of acid rain on man. Acid rain has the power to destroy our land and reduce our food supply. The toxicity of acid rain can render our water supplies undrinkable. The metals contained in acid rain can find their way into drinking water, crops, or animals that we eat. When ingested in big quantities, such pollutants can lead to nerve and brain damage. It has been considered that acid rain could hold a relation with Alzheimer’s disease.

Now that we know the causes of acid rain, we have a duty to reduce and eventually eliminate them. The reduction of acid rain levels will require a strong commitment from all industrialized communities. The problem of acid rain needs to be considered seriously and laws have to be reinforced to lower the rate of gases emission. The control and elimination of acid rain will require a collective and joint effort. Newer sources of energy have to be sought. Manufacturers have to explore alternate sources of energy such as solar power.

Single efforts can also add-up in reducing acid rain. Car pooling and driving our car only when necessary can greatly reduce gas emission on the long run. Following regulations and keeping cars in good circulating conditions can greatly reduce pollution and acid rain. The Environmental Protection Agency has been educating manufacturers and encouraging them on their efforts to reduce the quantity of exhaust released into the atmosphere. Whether or not we realize it, acid rain affects us all. It is everyone’s duty to take interest and participation in the resolution of acid rain. Every effort counts.