AN ANALYSIS ON REGULATORY CONTROL OF TRANSBOUNDARY ACID RAIN POLLUTION

Transboundary acid rain pollution is a significant environmental issue where sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) emissions from industrial activities, power plants, and vehicles travel across national borders through atmospheric circulation. These pollutants react with water vapor, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form acid rain, which falls to the ground as rain, snow, or fog. Acid rain has severe environmental consequences, including soil degradation, water contamination, forest destruction, and damage to historical monuments. It also poses risks to human health and biodiversity. Many countries have experienced cross-border acid rain disputes, such as the USA-Canada acid rain conflict, which led to the 1991 U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement to reduce emissions. Similarly, concerns have been raised about pollution from China affecting India, particularly in the Himalayan region, were black carbon and acid deposition impact glaciers and ecosystems. The issue of transboundary acid rain pollution highlights the need for international cooperation, legal frameworks, and stringent emission controls to address environmental damage and promote sustainable development.