Acid rain cut significantly since 80s, report says

The U.S. and Canada have gone beyond what the law requires in reducing emissions of the major contributors to acid rain, sulfur dioxide (SO2 ) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), according to a new joint study.

Dec. 9, 2000

Dec. 8, 2000—The United States and Canada have gone beyond what the law requires in successfully reducing emissions of the major contributors to acid rain, sulfur dioxide (SO2 ) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), according to a new joint study on cross-border air pollution released today by both countries.

As a result of these emissions cuts, rainfall acidity in the eastern United States has been reduced up to 25 percent compared to the 1980s; additionally, some ecosystems in New England are beginning to show signs of recovery from acidic damage.

The study, "U.S.-Canada 2000 Air Quality Agreement Progress Report," is the fifth in a series of biennial reports authorized by the 1991 United States-Canada Air Quality Agreement.

The study includes data on the significant progress both countries have made in expanding cooperative efforts to reduce air emissions of ground-level ozone (smog) and particulates.

The report further cites new cooperative efforts in both nations to assess the impact of particulate transport across the border and to develop a joint work plan to address the problem.

For further technical information, visit the EPA's web site at www.epa.gov/acidrain.