Drinking Water And Acid Rain
Remember the warnings from childhood, cautioning against catching raindrops or snowflakes with the phrase, "That might be acid rain!" Experts confirm that rainwater inherently possesses acidity, a result of its interaction with carbon dioxide during the precipitation process. The concept of ‘acid rain’ arises from the combination of certain air pollutants, where sulfur dioxide combines with nitrogen oxides and reacts with atmospheric oxygen to produce sulfuric acid, leading to acidic precipitation in the forms of rain, snow, or fog. Industrial smelters and coal-fired power plants release sulfur dioxide, while nitrogen oxides mainly come from vehicle emissions and can also be produced by lightning. Although acidic precipitation doesn’t directly affect human health, it is associated with particles that can induce respiratory problems. There is also concern that acid rain could mobilize mercury from the soil, potentially polluting water bodies through runoff. However, a decade-long study on acid rain reveals that its effects are less detrimental than initially thought, mainly causing aesthetic damage to buildings, disrupting the chemical balance of lakes and rivers, and affecting certain fish species. These concerns highlight the need to safeguard our monuments and outdoor areas, particularly as materials like paint, iron, zinc, and steel are susceptible. Nonetheless, there is a sense of relief, knowing that the former fears were overstated.
The Clean Air Act of 1990 has markedly lowered atmospheric sulfur dioxide concentrations. The government now keeps track of and restricts the emissions of such substances. As the issue is more pronounced in the Northeast, efforts are being made in conjunction with Eastern Canada to eliminate these pollutants from the atmosphere, with each state being allotted a specific annual emission quota.
The effect of acid rain on the water supply is negligible. Nevertheless, some people practice rainwater harvesting at home or during camping trips. Ingesting untreated collected rainwater is dangerous, but boiling and treating it with a disinfectant can make it safe to drink. If water sources are affected by acid rain, local water utilities generally monitor pH levels and would issue boiling advisories if needed. Furthermore, a home filtration system can offer additional protection against acidic contaminants. Those using well water should test it annually to check for any rise in pH levels.
Acid rain continues to be an area of active research, with new findings being reported daily. Stay informed about the latest developments by visiting your local water company’s website or the EPA’s site, especially if you live in the industrial Northeast. Read Next: Poisonous Waters: A Look into Acid Rain