Black carbon is the sooty black material emitted from gas and diesel engines, coal-fired power plants, and other sources that burn fossil fuel. It comprises a significant portion of particulate matter or PM, which is an air pollutant.

Black carbon is a global environmental problem that has negative implications for both human health and our climate. Inhalation of black carbon is associated with health problems including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and even birth defects. Black carbon also contributes to climate change causing changes in patterns of rain and clouds.

Research findings and technical support will be provided to other EPA offices, the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves (GACC), the Partnership for Clean Indoor Air (PCIA) and other partners to:

• Set global standards for cleaner stoves and fuels
• Improve current stove designs while taking socio-economic costs into account for those affected.

As black carbon deposits in the Arctic, the particles cover the snow and ice, decreasing the Earth’s ability to reflect the warming rays of the sun, while absorbing heat and hastening melt.