Measuring the impact of light-absorbing particles on Earth's snowpack, glaciers, and ice cover
When dust, soot and other black or dark-colored particles emitted through pollution are deposited in snow and ice, they increase melting. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory led a comprehensive, state-of-the-science review of light-absorbing particles. Their findings offer a better understanding of these complex climate-changers, underscoring the particles' far-reaching influence, affecting freshwater supplies and sea-level rise, as well as atmospheric heat and cloud formation. The team summarized the range of methods used to measure these particles in snow and ice, especially in regions that are most sensitive to changes in the Earth's ability to reflect sunlight. The review also covered modeling progress and suggested ways to advance understanding the particles' impact on the global climate.