Turn off accessible linear format and redisplay the web page in it's original layout. Acid Rain
Acid rain is rain, snow or fog that is polluted by acids in the atmosphere and that can cause damage to the environment. Sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are the pollutants that primarily cause acid rain on a large scale. When these substances are released into the atmosphere, they can react with the moisture in the atmosphere to form acid rain, snow, fog or dust. These pollutants can also be carried over long distances by prevailing winds before being deposited on the ground. When the receiving environment cannot neutralize the acid being deposited, damage occurs.
What NPRI pollutants contribute to the formation of acid rain?
The main acid rain pollutants, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides were added to the 2002 NPRI list. Copper and nickel smelting operations and electricity generation (fuel combustion) are the main sources of sulphur dioxide emissions in Canada. Most emissions of nitrogen oxides result from transportation and other fuel combustion activities, especially motor vehicles. Some of this information is captured in the NPRI. For more information on other sources of acid rain pollution, see related sites.
Where can I find out more about pollutants in my area that cause acid rain?
The NPRI can be a major starting point for information about pollution in your area. You can use the NPRI search engine to find out about emissions of pollutants that cause acid rain from facilities that reported to the NPRI.
- Enter your postal code or select your community name;
- From the list of pollutants/substances, select the one of interest OR from the list of environmental and health issues, select "acid-rain";
- Click on the "Search" button to get your search results.
For information about other pollutants use the search engine for more options.
How does acid rain affect the environment?
Acid rain can affect our lakes, forests and wildlife. It can also damage certain building materials (e.g. marble, limestone). For more information on the environmental risks and issues associated with acid rain, visit Environment Canada's Clean Air Online Web site.
How does acid rain affect human health?
For more information on the health risks and issues associated with acid rain, visit Environment Canada's Acid Rain Web site.
