International trade and environmental concerns are increasingly intertwined topics that frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and historical data from past IELTS exams, we can expect to see more questions exploring the complex relationship between global commerce and ecological sustainability. In this article, we’ll analyze a relevant question and provide sample essays for different band scores to help you prepare for this crucial aspect of the IELTS Writing test.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that international trade is damaging the environment and that countries should focus on producing goods locally. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to consider the environmental impact of international trade and evaluate the potential benefits of local production. It’s a complex issue that allows for a nuanced discussion of economic and environmental factors.
International Trade and Environment
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
The debate over the environmental impact of international trade versus local production is a complex and multifaceted issue. While it is true that global trade can contribute to environmental degradation, I believe that a balanced approach that combines international commerce with sustainable practices is more beneficial than focusing solely on local production.
International trade undeniably has some negative environmental consequences. The transportation of goods across vast distances results in significant carbon emissions, contributing to climate change. Moreover, the pressure to meet global demand can lead to unsustainable practices such as deforestation or overfishing in certain regions. These factors lend credence to the argument for prioritizing local production.
However, it would be shortsighted to disregard the potential environmental benefits of international trade. Firstly, global commerce allows for the efficient allocation of resources, enabling countries to specialize in producing goods for which they have a comparative advantage. This specialization can lead to more efficient use of resources and potentially reduce overall environmental impact. For instance, countries with abundant renewable energy sources can produce energy-intensive goods more sustainably than those relying on fossil fuels.
Furthermore, international trade facilitates the spread of green technologies and sustainable practices. As environmentally conscious consumers in developed countries demand eco-friendly products, it creates incentives for producers worldwide to adopt more sustainable methods. This diffusion of knowledge and technology can accelerate global progress towards environmental sustainability.
Rather than abandoning international trade, a more effective approach would be to implement stringent environmental regulations and standards globally. This could involve international agreements on carbon pricing, sustainable resource management, and eco-friendly production methods. By doing so, we can harness the economic benefits of global trade while mitigating its environmental costs.
In conclusion, while local production has its merits, I believe that a well-regulated system of international trade offers the best path forward for both economic development and environmental protection. The key lies in striking a balance between global commerce and ecological responsibility, ensuring that trade practices align with sustainability goals.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay would likely receive a high band score for several reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position and discussing both sides of the argument.
Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used with full flexibility and precision. There are several examples of less common lexical items used appropriately.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. There are no noticeable errors, and various complex structures are used effectively.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with clear reasoning and relevant examples.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Now, let’s look at an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
In today’s globalized world, the impact of international trade on the environment is a topic of growing concern. Some people argue that we should focus on producing goods locally to protect the environment. While I agree that local production has some benefits, I believe that a complete shift away from international trade is not the best solution.
It is true that international trade can harm the environment in several ways. The transportation of goods across long distances uses a lot of fuel and causes pollution. Also, some countries may have less strict environmental laws, which can lead to more pollution in those places. These are valid reasons why some people think local production is better for the environment.
However, international trade also has some positive effects that we should consider. It allows countries to specialize in making things they are good at, which can be more efficient. For example, if a country has a lot of sun, it might be better at producing solar panels than a country with less sunlight. This efficiency can actually help reduce waste and save resources.
Another benefit of international trade is that it can help spread new, eco-friendly technologies. When countries trade with each other, they also share ideas and innovations. This can help developing countries learn about and adopt greener practices faster than if they were isolated.
Instead of stopping international trade, I think we should focus on making it more environmentally friendly. This could include using cleaner transportation methods, like electric vehicles or ships that use less fuel. We could also create international rules to make sure all countries follow good environmental practices.
In conclusion, while local production has some environmental benefits, I believe that improving international trade practices is a better solution than completely abandoning global commerce. By making trade more sustainable, we can enjoy its economic benefits while also protecting the environment.
(Word count: 298)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay would likely receive a band score in the 6-7 range for the following reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task and presents a clear position, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
Lexical Resource: There is a good range of vocabulary, but it lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are present but not always successful.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Main points are supported, but the examples and explanations could be more detailed and specific.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some important vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions:
multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌl.tɪˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/: having many different aspects or features
degradation (noun) /ˌdeɡ.rəˈdeɪ.ʃən/: the process of becoming worse or less good
comparative advantage (noun phrase) /kəmˈpær.ə.tɪv ədˈvɑːn.tɪdʒ/: the ability to produce a good or service at a lower opportunity cost than others
stringent (adjective) /ˈstrɪn.dʒənt/: strict, severe, or restrictive
mitigating (verb) /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tɪŋ/: making something less harmful, serious, or painful
eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiː.kəʊ ˈfrend.li/: not harmful to the environment
globalized (adjective) /ˈɡləʊ.bə.laɪzd/: characterized by worldwide communication and interdependence
innovations (noun) /ˌɪn.əˈveɪ.ʃənz/: new ideas, methods, or devices
sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/: able to continue over a period of time without damaging the environment
isolated (adjective) /ˈaɪ.sə.leɪ.tɪd/: separated from other places, buildings, or people
Conclusion
The relationship between international trade and the environment is a complex issue that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding the key arguments and having a range of relevant vocabulary at your disposal, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle such questions.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of governments in regulating international trade to protect the environment
- The impact of consumer choices on global trade and environmental sustainability
- The potential of technology to make international trade more environmentally friendly
Remember, practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing skills. Consider sharing your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
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