The topic of natural resource consumption and population growth has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this issue commonly appears in problem-solution or discuss-both-views formats. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this topic:
With growing populations and increasing consumerism, the demand for natural resources is rising. Discuss the potential consequences of this trend and propose solutions to address the issue.
Growing global population and increasing consumption of natural resources illustrated through infographic
Analyzing the Question
- Topic: Natural resource consumption and population growth
- Task: Two-part question (discuss consequences + propose solutions)
- Key areas to address: Environmental impact, economic implications, social effects
- Required perspective: Global scale analysis
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
The exponential growth in global population coupled with rising consumerism has led to unprecedented pressure on Earth’s natural resources. This essay will examine the serious ramifications of this trend and suggest viable measures to mitigate its impact.
The consequences of increasing resource demand are both severe and far-reaching. The most immediate impact is environmental degradation, manifested through deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. For instance, the Amazon rainforest is being decimated at an alarming rate to meet the growing demand for timber and agricultural land. Furthermore, excessive resource extraction has accelerated climate change, with fossil fuel consumption contributing significantly to global warming. From an economic perspective, resource scarcity has triggered price volatility in commodity markets, potentially leading to geopolitical tensions and conflicts over resource control.
Environmental degradation caused by excessive natural resource exploitation
To address these challenges, both immediate and long-term solutions are essential. Governments must implement stringent regulations on resource extraction and mandate sustainable practices across industries. This could include enforcing strict environmental impact assessments and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms. Additionally, investment in renewable energy technologies and circular economy initiatives can help reduce dependence on finite resources. Public education campaigns about sustainable consumption patterns, combined with incentives for eco-friendly products, can help shift consumer behavior towards more sustainable choices.
In conclusion, the current trajectory of resource consumption poses serious threats to environmental stability and economic security. However, through coordinated action involving policy reform, technological innovation, and behavioral change, these challenges can be effectively addressed.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The world’s population is growing fast and people are using more natural resources than ever before. This essay will look at the problems this causes and some possible solutions.
The main problem of increasing resource use is damage to the environment. When we cut down forests and dig mines, we destroy animal homes and pollute the air and water. This makes climate change worse and affects people’s health. Another problem is that some resources like oil will finish one day, which will cause economic problems for many countries.
We can solve these problems in several ways. First, governments should make laws to protect the environment and stop companies from wasting resources. Second, scientists should develop new technologies that use less energy and materials. People should also try to use less stuff and recycle more.
To conclude, growing population and resource use cause environmental and economic problems, but we can solve them if everyone works together to make changes.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Analysis:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary used naturally
- Grammatical Range: Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Task Response: Addresses main points but with less detail
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization but less sophisticated linking
- Lexical Resource: Adequate but simpler vocabulary
- Grammatical Range: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- exponential growth (n.) /ˌek.spəˈnen.ʃəl/ – very fast increase
- consumerism (n.) /kənˈsjuː.mə.rɪ.zəm/ – lifestyle of buying many goods
- unprecedented (adj.) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never happened before
- mitigation (n.) /ˌmɪt.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/ – reduction of harmful effects
- ramifications (n.) /ˌræm.ɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃənz/ – consequences
- degradation (n.) /ˌdeɡ.rəˈdeɪ.ʃən/ – process of becoming worse
- stringent (adj.) /ˈstrɪn.dʒənt/ – strict, severe
- sustainable (adj.) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ – able to continue for a long time
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related questions like “Some people believe that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve. To what extent do you agree or disagree?” Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback.
