IELTS Writing Task 2: Regulating the Fashion Industry to Reduce Waste – Sample Essays and Analysis

The topic of government regulation in the fashion industry to reduce waste is becoming increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. This issue reflects growing global concerns about sustainability and environmental protection. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a specific question on this topic and analyze some sample essays.

Fashion industry waste and environmental impact

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that governments should regulate the fashion industry to reduce waste. Others believe it’s the responsibility of consumers to make sustainable choices. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should regulate the fashion industry
2. Discuss the view that consumers are responsible for sustainable choices
3. Provide their own opinion on the issue

It’s important to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your personal stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The fashion industry’s environmental impact has become a pressing concern, sparking debates about who should be responsible for reducing waste. While some argue for government intervention, others believe consumers should drive change through their choices. In my opinion, a combination of both approaches is necessary to effectively address this complex issue.

Proponents of government regulation argue that legislative measures can create significant, industry-wide changes. By implementing strict guidelines on production practices, material sourcing, and waste management, governments can force fashion companies to adopt more sustainable approaches. For instance, laws mandating the use of recycled materials or limiting harmful chemical usage could dramatically reduce the industry’s environmental footprint. Moreover, government-imposed taxes on fast fashion items could discourage overconsumption and promote more sustainable buying habits among consumers.

On the other hand, those who emphasize consumer responsibility contend that individual choices ultimately drive market trends. They argue that if consumers consistently opt for sustainable and ethically-produced fashion, companies will be compelled to adapt their practices to meet this demand. This view suggests that educating consumers about the environmental impact of their fashion choices and promoting sustainable alternatives can lead to significant changes in purchasing behavior. Additionally, consumer-led movements and social media campaigns can pressure brands to improve their sustainability practices, demonstrating the power of collective consumer action.

In my view, the most effective approach to reducing waste in the fashion industry involves a synergy between government regulation and consumer action. While government policies can establish a framework for sustainable practices and hold companies accountable, informed and motivated consumers are crucial in driving long-term change. Governments can support this by not only implementing regulations but also by investing in public education campaigns about sustainable fashion and supporting initiatives that make eco-friendly options more accessible and affordable.

In conclusion, addressing waste in the fashion industry requires a multi-faceted approach. By combining government regulations with empowered consumer choices, we can create a more sustainable fashion ecosystem that balances style with environmental responsibility.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific point. Linking words and phrases are used effectively to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “environmental footprint,” “consumer-led movements,” and “eco-friendly options” demonstrate a sophisticated command of English.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors. The use of conditional sentences, passive voice, and complex noun phrases adds to the sophistication of the writing.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of thought and analysis.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Many people have different opinions about how to reduce waste in the fashion industry. Some think the government should make rules, while others say it’s up to consumers to make better choices. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support government regulation believe it can make big changes. If the government makes laws about how clothes are made and what materials can be used, it could help reduce waste. For example, they could ban certain harmful chemicals or make companies use more recycled materials. This could force all fashion companies to be more environmentally friendly, even if they don’t want to.

On the other hand, some people think consumers should be responsible. They say that if people choose to buy sustainable fashion, companies will have to change to meet this demand. This means educating people about the impact of their fashion choices and encouraging them to buy less and choose better quality items. If enough people do this, it could change how fashion companies operate.

In my opinion, both the government and consumers have important roles to play. The government can create laws to guide the industry, but consumers also need to make good choices. I think the best solution is for the government to make some basic rules and also help educate people about sustainable fashion. This way, both companies and consumers can work together to reduce waste.

In conclusion, reducing waste in fashion is a complex problem that needs action from both the government and consumers. By working together, we can create a more sustainable fashion industry that is better for the environment.

(Word count: 272)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good competence but with some limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the discussion could be more in-depth.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited and repetitive (e.g., overuse of “some people think”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores. There is some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “sustainable fashion”), but this could be expanded.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good accuracy. However, there’s less variety in sentence structures compared to higher band essays.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the development is not as thorough as in the Band 8-9 essay. More specific examples or explanations could enhance the argument.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
2. Regulation (noun) /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃn/ – a rule or directive made and maintained by an authority
3. Environmental footprint (noun phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – the impact of human activities measured in terms of the area of biologically productive land and water required to produce the goods consumed and to assimilate the wastes generated
4. Fast fashion (noun phrase) /fɑːst ˈfæʃn/ – inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends
5. Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθɪkl/ – morally good or correct
6. Overconsumption (noun) /ˌəʊvəkənˈsʌmpʃn/ – the action or fact of consuming something to excess
7. Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
8. Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects

Conclusion

The topic of government regulation in the fashion industry to reduce waste is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of technology in promoting sustainable fashion
• Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in the fashion industry
• The impact of social media on fashion consumption habits and waste

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.