The phrase "indirect impact" refers to the influence or effect that something has on another thing, even if it is not direct or immediate. It means that something is causing a change or consequence in a roundabout or secondary way. Full definition
The report, by the British nonprofit group Practical Action, is a valuable effort to assess the full costs of inadequate energy access through indirect impacts on hospitals, schools and the like. (dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com)
The most indirect impact of all is coming through the global buildup of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, which are altering the climate and ocean chemistry with long - lasting repercussions. (dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com)
This productivity is vulnerable to direct impacts on crops and livestock from changing climate conditions and extreme weather events and indirect impacts through increasing pressures from pests and pathogens. (nca2014.globalchange.gov)