Sustainable tourism and its role in preserving natural resources is a topic of growing importance in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in various forms in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to craft high-scoring essays on this subject.
Analyzing the Topic
The intersection of sustainable tourism and natural resource preservation is a complex and timely issue. It touches on environmental conservation, economic development, and cultural preservation – all key themes in IELTS essays. Based on past exam trends, we can expect questions that ask candidates to discuss the benefits and challenges of sustainable tourism, propose solutions for balancing tourism and conservation, or argue for or against certain tourism practices.
Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Question
Let’s focus on the following question, which is representative of how this topic might appear in an actual IELTS exam:
Some people believe that the growth of tourism is causing irreversible damage to natural environments. Others argue that tourism can actually help protect these areas. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of tourism on natural environments
- Explain how tourism can potentially protect these areas
- Provide your own perspective on the issue
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your opinion.
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the given question:
Tourism’s impact on natural environments is a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While some contend that the growth of tourism is causing irreparable harm to natural areas, others believe it can serve as a tool for environmental protection. In my opinion, well-managed tourism can indeed play a crucial role in preserving natural resources.
Those who argue against tourism often point to its destructive effects on pristine environments. Mass tourism can lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. For instance, the construction of large resorts in coastal areas has resulted in the destruction of coral reefs and mangrove forests in many tropical destinations. Moreover, the influx of tourists can strain local water supplies and generate excessive waste, further damaging fragile ecosystems.
coral reef damage
On the other hand, proponents of tourism argue that it can be a powerful force for conservation. When managed sustainably, tourism can provide economic incentives for preserving natural areas. National parks and protected areas often rely on tourism revenue to fund conservation efforts and anti-poaching measures. Furthermore, ecotourism initiatives can raise awareness about environmental issues and foster a sense of stewardship among both visitors and local communities. The success of wildlife conservation efforts in countries like Costa Rica and Rwanda demonstrates how tourism can contribute to biodiversity protection.
In my view, the potential for tourism to support conservation outweighs its negative impacts, provided it is carefully managed. Sustainable tourism practices, such as limiting visitor numbers, implementing strict environmental regulations, and involving local communities in tourism development, can mitigate many of the harmful effects associated with mass tourism. Moreover, the economic benefits of tourism can provide a compelling alternative to more destructive industries like logging or mining, thus indirectly protecting natural areas.
In conclusion, while unchecked tourism growth can indeed damage natural environments, well-planned and sustainable tourism has the potential to be a powerful tool for conservation. By striking a balance between environmental protection and economic development, tourism can play a vital role in preserving our planet’s natural heritage for future generations.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:
Tourism’s effect on natural environments is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s very bad for nature, while others believe it can help protect it. I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts.
People who think tourism is bad for the environment have some good reasons. When too many tourists visit a place, it can cause problems. For example, building big hotels can destroy forests or beaches. Tourists also use a lot of water and make a lot of trash, which can harm plants and animals. In some famous places, like beaches in Thailand, tourism has caused pollution and damaged coral reefs.
However, there are also ways that tourism can help protect nature. When people visit beautiful natural places, they might learn to care more about the environment. This can make them want to protect it. Also, money from tourism can be used to take care of nature. For instance, in some African countries, money from wildlife tourism helps protect animals from poachers. Tourism can also give local people jobs that don’t harm nature, like being tour guides or working in eco-friendly hotels.
I think that if it’s done carefully, tourism can be good for protecting nature. It’s important to have rules to stop too much damage, like limiting the number of visitors or banning harmful activities. We should also teach tourists how to respect nature. If we do these things, tourism can help preserve natural areas instead of destroying them.
In conclusion, while tourism can cause some problems for the environment, I believe it can also help protect nature if it’s managed well. We need to find a balance between letting people enjoy natural places and keeping these places safe for the future.
(Word count: 287)
Writing Tips for This Topic
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Vocabulary: Use a range of environmental and tourism-related terms. For higher bands, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
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Grammar: Employ a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Higher band essays should demonstrate more advanced grammatical constructions.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your essay flows logically. Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas.
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Task Response: Address all parts of the question and provide relevant examples to support your arguments.
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Critical Thinking: For higher bands, demonstrate deeper analysis of the issues and consider multiple perspectives.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Sustainable tourism (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – Tourism that minimizes negative impacts on the environment and local communities
- Ecotourism (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas
- Habitat destruction (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪˈstrʌkʃn/ – The process by which natural habitats are damaged or destroyed
- Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
- Stewardship (noun) /ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ – The job of supervising or taking care of something, such as an organization or property
- Pristine (adjective) /ˈprɪstiːn/ – In its original condition; unspoiled
Conclusion
The topic of sustainable tourism and natural resource preservation is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in promoting sustainable tourism
- Balancing economic development with environmental protection in tourist destinations
- The impact of mass tourism on local cultures and environments
- Innovative solutions for sustainable travel and tourism
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
