There is an increasing need for expanding the scope of traditional life cycle studies to
answer system-wide sustainability questions. This has resulted in a framework for life
cycle sustainability analysis (LCSA). Since the framework was first published in 2009, as
one of the outcomes of the CALCAS project, several views and considerations concerning the
methodological approach have been published. However, until now practical experience with
LCSA is very limited. This paper reports first efforts and experiences in bringing the
LCSA framework into practice by assessing the sustainability of solar fuels. Starting
point of the project is the hypotheses that new technologies can only be practically
implemented if they fit into a socially, economically and ecologically sustainable
context. The analysis therefore aims at identifying performance criteria which a new
technology needs to fulfil in order to compete in the existing market. It is argued that a
LCSA study should be initiated with a broad but relevant system description as the first
of in total five steps Of this five step approach, the first – system description – is
discussed here. The system description identifies and describes the technological
description, the intended application of a technology, which share of specific demand for
service will be met, which other technologies contribute in meeting this demand, the
(relevant indicators for addressing )sustainable impacts of meeting the demand and
developments over time. By doing so it provides a solid basis for further steps in the
LCSA study.