Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
4
The importance of microclimatic modifications goes far beyond the study of climate. It
is at this scale that we can see the relationship between climatic processes, landscape
and ecosystems. Landforms and vegetation modify the microclimate; the microclimate
in turn controls many of the processes involved in landscape and soil development and
plant growth. Here, as in so many cases, we need to remember that the world does not
fall as conveniently into compartments as students (and authors of textbooks) would
sometimes like! It may make the study of geography rather complicated, but it also
makes it intriguing.
FURTHER READING
Geiger, R., Aron, R. H., and Todhunter, P. (1995)
Climate near the Ground
, fifth edition,
Wiesbaden: Vieweg. A classic text on microclimate now revised. Provides many examples of
the modifications generated by the ground surface. Intermediate level.
Hanwell, J. D., and Newson, M. D. (1973)
Techniques in Physical Geography
, London: Macmillan
(chapters 2 and 3). An elementary and practical topic demonstrating useful techniques in
meteorology and local-scale climatology.
Oke, T. R. (1987)
Boundary Layer Climates
, second edition, London: Methuen. An intermediate to
advanced-level topic demonstrating the significance of the ground surface in determining
microclimate. Very clearly presented but still needs careful reading.
Rosenburg, N., Bled, B. L., and Verma, S. B. (1983)
Microclimate: the biological environment
,
second edition, New York: Wiley. Looks at microclimate from a biological viewpoint, stressing
the meteorological factors responsible. Nevertheless it is a clear exposition of the nature and
causative factors of microclimate. Particularly good on evapotranspiration and selected
environments such as shelter belts.
