Tourism’s impact on wildlife conservation has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. As Ecotourism: future of travel? suggests, this theme reflects growing global concerns about sustainable tourism and environmental protection.
Impact of tourism on wildlife conservation shown through statistical data
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people believe that tourism helps protect local wildlife and natural habitats, while others argue that it causes damage to local ecosystems. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both positive and negative impacts of tourism on wildlife
- Present balanced arguments
- Express and justify a personal stance
- Provide relevant examples and evidence
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
Tourism’s relationship with wildlife conservation presents a complex dynamic that merits careful consideration. While how tourism contributes to environmental damage in developing countries, there are also instances where it supports conservation efforts.
Tourism can significantly contribute to wildlife protection through various mechanisms. Firstly, revenue generated from wildlife tourism often funds conservation projects and park maintenance. For example, in Kenya’s Masai Mara, tourist fees directly support anti-poaching efforts and habitat preservation. Additionally, when local communities benefit economically from wildlife tourism, they become more invested in protecting these natural resources.
However, uncontrolled tourism can severely damage ecosystems. Large numbers of visitors can disturb animal behavior patterns and destroy natural habitats. In Thailand’s Maya Bay, excessive tourism led to extensive coral reef damage, forcing authorities to close the area for rehabilitation. Tourism in far-reaching places: advantages vs. disadvantages shows how even remote locations aren’t immune to these impacts.
In my opinion, while tourism can pose risks to wildlife, its benefits can outweigh the drawbacks when properly managed. The key lies in implementing sustainable tourism practices that balance conservation with visitor access. This might include limiting visitor numbers, establishing protected zones, and ensuring tourism revenue directly supports conservation efforts.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The impact of tourism on local wildlife is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it helps protect animals while others believe it causes problems.
Tourism can help protect wildlife in several ways. First, when tourists pay to visit natural areas, this money can be used to protect animals. For example, in India’s tiger reserves, tourism helps pay for forest guards and animal protection. Also, when local people earn money from tourism, they want to protect the animals because it’s good for their business.
But tourism can also cause problems for wildlife. Too many tourists can scare animals and damage their homes. For instance, in some beach areas, how tourism affects the environment in developing nations by disturbing sea turtles when they try to lay eggs. Also, some tourists leave trash that can harm animals.
I think tourism can be both good and bad for wildlife. It depends on how well it is controlled. If governments make good rules and tourists follow them, tourism can help protect animals while still letting people enjoy nature.
Key Vocabulary for Wildlife Conservation Essays
- Ecosystem (n) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms
- Conservation (n) /kɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ – preservation and protection of wildlife
- Biodiversity (n) /baɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of plant and animal life
- Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained without damaging the environment
- Habitat (n) /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – natural home of an animal or plant
In conclusion, this topic remains crucial for IELTS candidates to master. Practice writing essays about similar themes like should there be limits on international tourism to protect the environment to enhance your preparation. Share your practice essays in the comments for community feedback and improvement.
