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Effects of Vegetated and Synthetic (Impervious) Surfaces on the Microclimate of Urban Area
Obiakor, M.O.; Ezeonyejiaku, C.D. & Mogbo, T.C.
Abstract
The present paper shows the considerable impacts of both vegetated and synthetic surfaces on the
microclimate of urban area. Vegetation of a particular place affects the microclimate through reduced solar radiation
and lower air temperature due to shading and evapotranspiration. Lower air temperatures are essential both to
improve thermal comfort conditions of residents and to limit energy use for cooling. The growth and spread of
synthetic (impervious) surfaces within urbanizing areas pose significant threats to the quality of natural and built
environments. These threats include increased stormwater runoff, reduced water quality, higher maximum summer
temperatures, degraded, and destroyed aquatic and terrestrial habitats, and the diminished aesthetic appeal of streams
and landscapes. This paper provides a basic introduction to microclimate, vegetated and impervious surfaces and an
overview of the effects of increased imperviousness and vegetation on the microclimate of urban areas. Although
urban and suburban growth is inevitable, many of the environmental impacts of impervious surfaces are avoidable or
controllable. Working together, local governments and citizens can reduce the amount of land rendered impervious,
and can reduce its adverse impacts, promoting a healthier environment through sound landuse planning and improved
land management.
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