Final answer:
The consensus on acid rain's effects on forests is that it contributes to their declining health by weakening trees and soil, leaving them prone to disease and insect attacks, although it isn't the only factor responsible for such conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The current expert consensus concerning the role of acid rain on the health of forests is that acid rain weakens trees and the surrounding soil, making them more susceptible to disease and insects. This position is supported by evidence that acid rain causes acidification of lakes and streams, contributing to the damage of trees at high elevations and many sensitive forest soils. It also releases aluminum from soils into lakes and streams, which is toxic to many aquatic species. While acid rain is not the sole cause of decline in forest health, it is a significant contributing factor alongside other stressors like air pollutants, drought, and extreme weather conditions.
Acid rain was a more severe problem in the past, especially in North America and Europe, leading to the destruction of forests and lakes until regulations were introduced to reduce emissions of sulfur and nitrogen oxides. These regulations have successfully lessened the severity of acid damage in these regions, but acid rain remains a growing problem in industrial areas like China and India. Overall, the health of forests is being affected by a combination of acid rain and other environmental stressors, but measures to reduce emissions are proving effective.