Acidification has decreased
The main source of acidification – emissions of sulphur from the combustion of oil and coal– has decreased.
Between 1989–1991 and 2005–2007 sulphur deposition in Sweden declined by 61 percent. Deposition of nitrogen, a contributory cause of acidification, declined by 23 percent. Another, growing, source of acidification is the removal of base cations through forest harvesting.
Fewer acidified lakes
About three percent of Sweden’s lakes exceeding four hectares in area were acidified and unlimed in 2005. The problem is worst in southwest Sweden.
Reduced soil acidification
Acidification of forest soils is also declining. The percentage of forest soils in Sweden showing a high or very high degree of acidity fell from 23 percent in the period 1985–1987 to 12.9 percent in the period 1999–2003.
The percentage of severly acidified forest soils (as assessed
according to the Environmental Quality Criteria for Forest
Landscapes) has decreased. Source: The Swedish National
Inventory of Forests and National environmental monitoring.
Sweden’s heritage under threat
Acidifying substances in rain, air, water and soil accelerate the deterioration of buildings, bridges, statues and decorations. Buried objects such as pipes and historical remains are also attacked.
Reduced acid rain
Sulphur and nitrogen deposition in Sweden has declined. However, emissions of these substances must be reduced still further to stop acidification.
The interim target for emissions of sulphur dioxide to air within the envionmental quality objective "Natural Acidification Only" has already been met. Source: Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.
World-leaders in liming
Sweden’s liming programme, the largest in the world, began in 1976. Today over 5,000 lakes and 9,000 kilometres of streams are limed each year.
International cooperation
Further reduction of acidification depends on greater international cooperation, with all countries agreeing to cut their emissions of acidifying substances. Sweden is a strong promoter of this cause in the UN and the EU.
Contact: Joakim Lücke, joakim.lucke(a)naturvardsverket.se