This series examines topical issues concerning the environment. Here, the subject of acid rain is introduced to the young reader - its detrimental effects on rocks, lakes, forests, buildings and people, and the role of prevailing winds and pollution. The author describes how rainwater becomes more acid as a result of air pollution. Measures to reduce the problem are discussed, the author suggesting practical steps we can each take to reduce the risks, such as the reduction or the filtering of emissions of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Finally, international attitudes to the problem and encouraging responses towards resolving this problem are discussed. The author has played an active role in environmental education with the EEC, Council of Europe, UN Environment Programme and UNESCO. He has also written The Environment.