This stage defines and describes the product, process, service, or activity to be studied. Establishes the context in which the assessment will be conducted and identifies the boundaries and environmental effects to be evaluated. This section is key for the development of the study because it implies the definition of the functional unit and the system boundaries, which are linked to the entire analysis.

The goal definition is essential for all the other step in the LCA; therefore, some specific aspect must be considered and documented during this stage (ILCD, 2010):

• Reasons for performing the study and decision-context (why is the study carried out?);
• The target audience of the assessment results (what kind of questions are the study intended to answer?);
• Comparative studies to be disclosed to the public;
• Commissioner of the assessment and other relevant actors.