A microclimate is a local atmospheric zone with a climate differing from the surrounding area. It may be only a square meter, e.g. part of a garden, or square kilometers in size.

They may be created by:

  • bodies of water which cool the air,
  • dark colored hard surfaces such as brick, concrete, and asphalt, which absorb solar energy, become hot, and then heat the surrounding air - for example the urban heat island
  • landforms which redirect, channel or slow down the prevailing wind.
  • slope - South-facing slopes in the Northern Hemisphere and North-facing slopes in the Southern Hemisphere receive more direct sunlight and are thus warmer.
  • walls and buildings, which intentionally or accidentally block sun and wind, and sometimes channel wind.

This is not only a critical factor to account for in sustainable design, but good design also improves the microclimate. Permaculture includes a focus on influencing the microclimate.

A walled garden is a clear example of a microclimate, protected from wind and potentially protected from frost.

Notes and references[edit | edit source]


FA info icon.svg Angle down icon.svg Page data
Authors Chris Watkins
License CC-BY-SA-3.0
Language English (en)
Related 0 subpages, 8 pages link here
Impact 452 page views
Created June 7, 2011 by Chris Watkins
Modified June 9, 2023 by Felipe Schenone
Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies.