Acid rain is now a familiar problem in the industrialized countries in

Europe. Gases like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are produced by
power stations and cars. The gases dissolve in rainwater, and this
makes the acid rain, which damages trees, rivers and streams. Acid
rain is also capable of dissolving some rocks, and buildings made of soft
rock, such as limestone, are particularly badly affected. The acid rain
attacks the rock, and carvings and statues are eroded much more
quickly. The problem, however, is not just a European one. According to
a report in the "New Scientist", acid rain is being blamed for the rapid
decay of ancient ruins in Mexico. The old limestone buildings at some
places are wearing away very rapidly indeed. These sites are the
remains of buildings built by the Mayans between 250 BC and AD 900.
Those ruins are in danger of being seriously damaged by pollution. At
many sites the stone has been covered with a layer of black substance
like tar. At other sites painted surfaces inside temples are flaking off.