IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Reduce Carbon Emissions in Business Operations – Sample Essays and Analysis

Carbon emissions reduction in business operations is a crucial topic in today’s environmentally conscious world. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and is likely to continue being a relevant theme in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide essay examples for different band scores.

Carbon reduction strategies in business

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:

Many people believe that businesses should be required to reduce their carbon emissions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

This question asks for your opinion on whether businesses should be obligated to reduce their carbon emissions. It’s an agree/disagree type question, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a sample essay that could potentially score in the Band 8-9 range:

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and the role of businesses in contributing to carbon emissions cannot be overstated. I strongly agree with the view that companies should be required to reduce their carbon footprint, as this approach offers numerous benefits for both the environment and the economy.

Firstly, mandating carbon emission reductions for businesses is crucial for addressing climate change effectively. Large corporations are often the biggest polluters, and without strict requirements, many may prioritize short-term profits over long-term environmental sustainability. By enforcing emission reduction targets, governments can ensure that businesses take meaningful action to mitigate their environmental impact. This could involve adopting cleaner technologies, improving energy efficiency, or transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Moreover, requiring businesses to reduce their carbon emissions can drive innovation and create new economic opportunities. When companies are compelled to find ways to lower their emissions, they often invest in research and development of green technologies. This not only leads to more environmentally friendly practices but also stimulates the growth of the clean energy sector, potentially creating new jobs and driving economic growth. For instance, the rise of electric vehicles and solar power industries has been partly driven by regulations pushing for lower emissions.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that implementing such requirements must be done thoughtfully. Smaller businesses might struggle with the costs associated with reducing emissions, so a graduated approach based on company size and sector could be more equitable. Additionally, governments should provide support and incentives to help businesses transition to low-carbon operations, such as tax breaks for green investments or grants for energy-efficient upgrades.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that requiring businesses to reduce their carbon emissions is a necessary step towards combating climate change and fostering sustainable economic growth. While the implementation of such requirements needs careful consideration, the potential benefits for our planet and economy far outweigh the challenges.

(Word count: 309)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that could potentially score in the Band 6-7 range:

These days, many people think businesses should have to reduce their carbon emissions. I agree with this idea because it’s important for the environment and can be good for business too.

First, making businesses reduce carbon emissions is good for the environment. Many big companies produce a lot of pollution, which is bad for the planet. If they have to cut down on emissions, it will help fight climate change. For example, if factories use less energy or switch to clean energy like solar power, it can make a big difference.

Second, reducing carbon emissions can actually help businesses save money in the long run. When companies find ways to use less energy, they often end up spending less on electricity and fuel. This means they can save money while also helping the environment. Some companies might even find new ways to make money by selling eco-friendly products.

However, it might be hard for some small businesses to reduce their emissions because it can be expensive to change how they work. The government should help these businesses by giving them money or advice on how to be more green.

In conclusion, I think it’s a good idea to make businesses reduce their carbon emissions. It’s important for the environment and can also be good for the companies themselves. But we need to make sure we help smaller businesses do this too.

(Word count: 223)

Key Points to Consider When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more developed ideas and smoother transitions between paragraphs.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases, such as “mitigate their environmental impact” and “foster sustainable economic growth”. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still conveys the main ideas effectively.

3. Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler sentence structures but still maintains grammatical accuracy.

4. Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed arguments and considers potential counterarguments.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses a variety of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. The Band 6-7 essay also uses some linking words but in a simpler manner.

Useful Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.

2. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.

3. Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnuːəbəl ˈenərdʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.

4. Emission reduction (noun) /ɪˈmɪʃən rɪˈdʌkʃən/: The act of decreasing the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

5. Energy efficiency (noun) /ˈenərdʒi ɪˈfɪʃənsi/: The use of less energy to perform the same task or produce the same result.

6. Green technology (noun) /griːn tekˈnɑːlədʒi/: Technology that is environmentally friendly and often energy-efficient.

7. Carbon-neutral (adjective) /ˈkɑːrbən ˈnjuːtrəl/: Making no net release of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

8. Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkoʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment.

Conclusion

The topic of reducing carbon emissions in business operations is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:

• The role of government in regulating business emissions
• The impact of carbon taxes on businesses and the economy
• The responsibility of multinational corporations in addressing climate change

To practice, try writing your own essay on the sample question provided or on one of these related topics. Feel free to share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember, regular practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing skills!

For more insights on environmental responsibility in business, you might find our article on why environmental responsibility should be a business priority helpful. Additionally, to explore how businesses can implement sustainable practices, check out our guide on how to create a sustainable business model.