Biomass burning is a significant source of gas- and particle-phase carbon in the atmosphere. It emits thousands of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to the formation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Recent studies have shown that furans are an important class of VOCs and constitute a significant portion of biomass burning plumes.

Organic aerosols (OA) have long been thought to only scatter incoming solar radiation and have a cooling effect on climate. However, a fraction of OA, referred to as brown carbon (BrC), absorbs light in the lower visible to ultraviolet range. BrC can be emitted from incomplete combustions and can also be generated through secondary processes. The radiative impact of BrC on climate is difficult to assess owing to the lack of knowledge about emissions and the evolution of BrC aerosol.