Two Loops Framework, 

This model was developed by the Berkana Institute (Margaret Wheatley & Deborah Frieze), is a powerful way to understand transitions  and engage with systemic transformation in times of uncertainty and change.

The model maps the lifecycle of systems, showing how all living systems rise, peak, and eventually decline. The first loop represents the dominant system, which as it nears its limits, begins to show signs of breakdown. This is where “hospicing” plays a vital role—supporting people and institutions to honour what was, while reducing harm and learning from what’s ending. At the same time, the second loop shows the birth of the new. As cracks appear in the dominant system, individuals and groups “walk out” to experiment with alternatives. These early innovators often begin in isolation but, when connected in networks, supported, and resourced, they can form communities of practice—learning together and laying the foundations for new systems to take root.

Over time, as these innovations mature and gain visibility, they become illuminated examples of what's possible. This visibility can attract support, attention, and resources, shifting momentum toward the new. The Two Loops model helps us see our roles—whether as hospice workers, innovators, connectors, or storytellers—in navigating transition, and reminds us that meaningful change is always seeded in the community.

Two Waves and Six Phases

The Two Wave framework serves as a map to help us comprehend the emergence of new systems and the collapse of the old. As one system culminates, outlier alternatives slowly begin to appear and give way to the new. This framework is a valuable tool for comprehending the changes occurring as well as our position in the transformation process.

The Two Wave framework has been adapted from the ‘Two Loop Model of Change’, as introduced by the Berkana Institute, also encapsulate Joanna Macy's concepts of "The Great Unravelling" and "The Great Turning", and is informed by the Theory U, and the Adaptive Cycle.

The first wave signifies the "Great Unravelling" - the decline of the old, dominant system that has led to the systemic breakdown of our world due to unfair and unsustainable practices. As this wave crashes, we are confronted with the fallout of an industrial growth society characterised by escalating climate change, entrenched social inequality, and precarious economic instability.

The second wave rises to represent the "Great Turning" -  led by pioneers and community catalysts who are co-creating regenerative practices that not only boost the health of our ecosystems, but also ensure wellbeing for all.

While the model is a non-linear theory of change based on living systems, our journey as climate coaches will begin at the peak of the first wave. However, depending on your context, you could choose to start at any other phase. Regardless of the starting point, the framework offers valuable insights and resources to build our capacity to empower communities to lead in addressing climate change and build resilience. The six phases embedded in the two wave framework are…

1. Growing Personal Resilience and Capacity

2. Building Collective Capacity in Community Engagement 

3. Connecting with Community, Place and Nature

4. Mapping Strengths & Envisioning Community-Led Initiatives  

5. Hosting Dialogue & Nourishing Community-Led Initiatives  

Deepening Impact & Amplifying Transformative Innovation

Links:

Berkana Institute: 

https://berkana.org/resources/pioneering-a-new-paradigm/

Two Loops Model on the Simon Fraser University website:

https://www.sfu.ca/complex-systems-frameworks/frameworks/strategies/two-loop-model.html