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CLDs are a useful approach for grasping the casual interactions of defined systems and like the DPSIR scheme, allow the practitioner to experiment with solutions to the particular challenge area. However, CLDs possess a number of
shortcomings that can influence their usefulness in framing sustainability challenges. First, the labeling of the different sub-components can appear problematic.
The parameters must always be labeled as more or less of something (e.g., human
population, greenhouse gas releases, biodiversity loss). This can lead to difficulties
in understanding the respective sub-components of a system. In addition, critique
has been lodged against a CLD’s spaghetti-like appearance, and related inability in
understanding sophisticated conceptualizations of a problem area. Related, the aim
of a CLD is to create causal relationships in as few steps as possible. Gross oversimplifications in processes also can often cause difficulties in interpreting a CLD
therefore creating opportunities for creating false conclusions to be drawn about the
system in question.
Fig. 3.2 Example of a simple causal loop diagram for bush encroachment in southern Africa. The
conceptualization shows the main drivers of the encroachment and their causal impacts on other
parameters. (Source: Southern African Program on Ecosystem Change and Society, n.d.)
3 Approaches for Framing Sustainability Challenges: Experiences from Swedish…
CLDs are a useful approach for grasping the casual interactions of defined systems and like the DPSIR scheme, allow the practitioner to experiment with solutions to the particular challenge area. However, CLDs possess a number of
shortcomings that can influence their usefulness in framing sustainability challenges. First, the labeling of the different sub-components can appear problematic.
The parameters must always be labeled as more or less of something (e.g., human
population, greenhouse gas releases, biodiversity loss). This can lead to difficulties
in understanding the respective sub-components of a system. In addition, critique
has been lodged against a CLD’s spaghetti-like appearance, and related inability in
understanding sophisticated conceptualizations of a problem area. Related, the aim
of a CLD is to create causal relationships in as few steps as possible. Gross oversimplifications in processes also can often cause difficulties in interpreting a CLD
therefore creating opportunities for creating false conclusions to be drawn about the
system in question.
Fig. 3.2 Example of a simple causal loop diagram for bush encroachment in southern Africa. The
conceptualization shows the main drivers of the encroachment and their causal impacts on other
parameters. (Source: Southern African Program on Ecosystem Change and Society, n.d.)
3 Approaches for Framing Sustainability Challenges: Experiences from Swedish…