Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Importance of Sustainability in Business Operations

The topic of sustainability in business operations has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on environmental issues, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear frequently in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests and develop sample essays to help you prepare effectively.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that businesses should do anything they can to make a profit, while others think businesses should try to improve society and the environment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question directly addresses the Importance Of Sustainability In Business Operations by contrasting profit-driven approaches with socially and environmentally responsible practices. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that businesses should prioritize profit above all else
2. Explore the perspective that businesses have a responsibility to improve society and the environment
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that effectively addresses all parts of the question:

In today’s globalized economy, the role of businesses in society is increasingly scrutinized. While some argue that companies should focus solely on maximizing profits, others contend that they have a broader responsibility to contribute positively to society and the environment. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this complex issue.

Those who believe businesses should prioritize profit often argue that this is the fundamental purpose of commercial enterprises. They contend that by focusing on financial success, companies can create jobs, drive economic growth, and ultimately benefit society through increased prosperity. Moreover, proponents of this view might argue that it is the responsibility of governments, not businesses, to address social and environmental concerns. They may point out that profitable companies pay more taxes, which can then be used to fund social programs and environmental initiatives.

On the other hand, advocates for corporate social responsibility argue that businesses have an ethical obligation to consider their impact on society and the environment. They believe that sustainable business practices can lead to long-term success while also addressing pressing global challenges. This perspective emphasizes that companies rely on natural resources and human capital, and therefore should act as stewards of these resources. Furthermore, socially responsible businesses often benefit from improved public image, increased customer loyalty, and enhanced employee satisfaction, which can contribute to long-term profitability.

In my opinion, while profitability is undoubtedly crucial for business survival, it should not come at the expense of social and environmental well-being. I believe that the most successful and admirable companies are those that strike a balance between financial success and positive societal impact. By integrating sustainability into their core operations, businesses can create shared value, addressing societal needs and environmental challenges while also securing their long-term viability in a rapidly changing world.

In conclusion, the debate over business priorities reflects the evolving expectations of corporate responsibility in the 21st century. While profit remains a critical goal, I believe that businesses that embrace sustainability and social responsibility are better positioned to thrive in the long run, benefiting both their bottom line and the world at large.

(Word count: 329)

Sustainable Business Practices

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that demonstrates writing at the Band 6-7 level:

In the modern world, there is a debate about what businesses should focus on. Some people think companies should only try to make money, while others believe they should also help society and the environment. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

Firstly, some people say businesses should just focus on making profits. They think this is the main job of a company and that it’s good for the economy. When businesses make more money, they can hire more people and pay more taxes. This can help the whole country grow and become richer. Also, they might say it’s not the job of businesses to solve social or environmental problems, but the government should do this.

However, other people believe businesses have a bigger responsibility. They think companies should care about the environment and help make society better. This is because businesses use resources from nature and need people to work for them. If they don’t take care of these things, they might have problems in the future. Also, when businesses do good things, people like them more and might buy more from them.

In my opinion, I think businesses should try to do both. Making money is important, but they should also think about how they affect the world. If businesses only care about profits, they might damage the environment or treat workers badly. This could cause problems for everyone in the long run. I believe the best companies are those that can make money while also doing good things for society and the environment.

To conclude, while making profits is crucial for businesses, I think they should also try to have a positive impact on society and the environment. This approach can help them be successful for a long time and make the world a better place.

(Word count: 293)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Essay structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and collocations (e.g., “globalized economy,” “scrutinized,” “corporate social responsibility”) compared to the simpler language in the Band 6-7 essay.

3. Grammar: The higher-band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, including conditional sentences and relative clauses. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler sentence structures but still maintains clarity.

4. Task response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more developed personal opinion.

5. Coherence and cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated linking words and phrases to connect ideas, while the Band 6-7 essay relies on simpler connectives.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
2. Corporate social responsibility (noun phrase) /ˌkɔːrpərət ˌsoʊʃəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – a business approach that contributes to sustainable development by delivering economic, social and environmental benefits for all stakeholders
3. Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθɪkl/ – relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these
4. Stewardship (noun) /ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ – the responsible overseeing and protection of something considered worth caring for and preserving
5. Long-term viability (noun phrase) /ˌlɒŋ tɜːm ˌvaɪəˈbɪləti/ – the ability of something to continue to exist or develop in the future
6. Stakeholders (noun) /ˈsteɪkhoʊldərz/ – persons or groups with an interest or concern in a business
7. Integrate (verb) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – to combine one thing with another so that they become a whole
8. Scrutinize (verb) /ˈskruːtənaɪz/ – to examine or inspect closely and thoroughly

Conclusion

The importance of sustainability in business operations is a crucial topic in modern IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can effectively address questions on this theme. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:

• The role of businesses in addressing climate change
• Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
• The impact of consumer choices on corporate sustainability practices

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.