In addition to GHGs, other pollutants contribute to climate change. Black carbon (BC), a component of particle pollution, directly absorbs incoming and reflected solar radiation and reduces reflection of sunlight off of snow and ice. In these ways, BC contributes to increased absorption of energy at the Earth’s surface and warming of the atmosphere. Recent studies suggest that BC may be having a significant impact on the Earth’s climate. Other types of particles—particularly sulfates, nitrates, and some types of directly emitted organic carbon—are largely reflective and therefore have a net cooling impact on the atmosphere. Particles can also have important indirect effects on climate through impacts on clouds and precipitation.