Acid rain damages trees at high elevations and sensitive forest soils, and causes acidification of lakes and streams. As a result, uneven sparse foliage is unable to carry out photosynthesis efficiently.
It breaks down the integrity of many types of objects and buildings. It accelerates the decay of building materials and paints, including irreplaceable buildings, statues, and sculptures that are part of our nation’s cultural heritage.
Acids also disrupt the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems, killing organisms. Prior to falling to the earth, pollution (SO2 and NOX gases and their particulate matter derivatives, sulfates and nitrates) contribute to visibility degradation (smog) and harm public health.