Outlines the development of the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), and discusses the operating process behind the first version BREEAM 1/90. Examines the objectives and criteria for BREEAM, highlighting its functions to provide recognition for buildings which are friendlier to the global environment than normal, so stimulating a market for them; to raise awareness of the dominant role which the use of energy in buildings plays in global warming; to provide a common set of targets and standards. Explores the environmental issues addressed in BREEAM, concentrating on global, neighbourhood and internal issues. Suggests future issues and comments on the assessment process.