ABSTRACT.The paper presents a quantitative engineering approach to analysis of total environment allowing for simultaneous consideration of a theoretically infinite number of quality indicators and physiological requirements. It discusses theory and fundamentals of a two‐dimensional space and time function solution concerning a small estuarine‐type environment. A three dimensional solution is indicated. Input data may range from reconnaissance‐type to the outputs of mathematical transport models. Applications are discussed with respect to environmental quality problems, availability of suitable data, and some areas of research where results could find immediate applic