Acid Rain
What we can do to stop it from harming our environment
How we can reduce Acid Rain
There are several options for reducing SO2 emissions, including using coal containing less sulfur, washing the coal, and using devices called “scrubbers” to chemically remove the SO2 from the gases leaving the smokestack. Power plants can also switch fuels—for example, burning natural gas creates much less SO2 than burning coal. Also, there are many ways that not only our society but ourselves can help prevent acid rain to help conserve our oceans, lakes and forests.
What is Acid Rain?
Acid precipitation is produced when certain types of air pollutants mix with the moisture in the air to form an acid. These acids then fall to Earth as rain, snow, or fog. Even when the weather is dry, acid pollutants may fall to Earth in gases or particles. In addition, acid rain accelerates the decay of building materials and paints, including irreplaceable buildings, statues, and sculptures that are part of our nation's cultural heritage.
What Is Being Done Right Now To Help Prevent Acid Rain?
"This is a very innovative program, where the environment wins because significant acid rain reductions will improve lakes and streams, protect buildings and forests, and cut haze in the air, while the utilities and their ratepayers win because the market approach allows power plants to comply at the lowest possible cost," said EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner. "The rule also encourages energy efficiency improvements, newer pollution control technologies, and the use of lower-sulfur fuels." Carl M. Browner says that with new programs being put in place, acid rain will be reduced and it will greatly benefit forests and lakes.
Works Cited
Browner, Carl M. "EPA." Announces Final Rule on Acid Rain Emission Trading. N.p., 21 May 2014. Web. 10 Apr. 2015.
"Effects of Acid Rain - Human Health." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, 4 Dec. 2012. Web. 08 Apr. 2015.
"Effects of Acid Rain." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, 4 Dec. 2012. Web. 06 Apr. 2015.
"Reducing Acid Rain | Plain English Guide to The Clean Air Act." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, 4 Dec. 2012. Web. 10 Apr. 2015.
"Reducing Acid Rain." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, 4 Dec. 2012. Web. 08 Apr. 2015.
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