In recent years, environmental issues have become increasingly prominent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. One recurring theme is the role of governments in implementing stricter pollution controls. This topic has appeared in various forms and is likely to continue being a popular subject for future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that mirrors real IELTS exam scenarios:
Some people believe that governments should enforce stricter pollution controls on industries. Others think that companies should be responsible for reducing their own pollution levels. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format, asking candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints and provide their own opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- The role of governments in enforcing pollution controls
- The responsibility of companies in reducing pollution
- Your personal stance on the issue
It’s crucial to cover all these points while maintaining a balanced argument throughout your essay.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Government pollution control
Environmental pollution is a pressing global concern, and there is ongoing debate about who should bear the primary responsibility for controlling it. While some argue that governments should take a more forceful approach in regulating industrial emissions, others contend that businesses should be proactive in minimizing their environmental impact. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those who advocate for stronger governmental intervention argue that pollution control is too crucial to be left to the discretion of private enterprises. They contend that without strict regulations and enforcement, many companies would prioritize profits over environmental concerns. Governments have the authority to impose fines, revoke licenses, and even shut down non-compliant industries, which can serve as powerful deterrents against pollution. Moreover, government-led initiatives can ensure a level playing field for all businesses, preventing environmentally responsible companies from being at a competitive disadvantage.
On the other hand, proponents of corporate responsibility assert that companies are best positioned to develop innovative solutions to reduce their pollution levels. They argue that businesses have intimate knowledge of their production processes and are thus more capable of identifying efficient ways to minimize waste and emissions. Furthermore, environmentally conscious practices can often lead to cost savings and improved public image, providing natural incentives for companies to self-regulate. This approach also promotes a sense of ownership and commitment to sustainability within the private sector.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to pollution control lies in a synergistic relationship between government regulations and corporate initiatives. While governments should indeed set and enforce stringent environmental standards, companies should be encouraged to go beyond mere compliance and strive for excellence in sustainability. This could be achieved through a combination of penalties for non-compliance and incentives for exceeding targets. For instance, governments could offer tax breaks or grants to companies that significantly reduce their carbon footprint or develop groundbreaking clean technologies.
In conclusion, the responsibility for pollution control should be shared between governments and businesses. By fostering a collaborative environment that combines robust regulations with corporate innovation, we can create a more sustainable future for our planet. This balanced approach ensures that environmental protection is prioritized across all sectors of society, maximizing our chances of addressing the pollution crisis effectively.
(Word count: 345)
Band 6-7 Essay
Pollution is a big problem in many countries, and people have different ideas about how to solve it. Some think the government should make stricter rules, while others believe companies should take care of their own pollution. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, government control can be very effective. Governments have the power to make laws and punish companies that pollute too much. They can set limits on how much pollution is allowed and fine companies that break these rules. This can force all businesses to be more careful about the environment. Also, governments can use taxes to encourage cleaner practices and give money to help companies buy better equipment.
On the other hand, companies know their own business best. They understand how their factories work and might have good ideas about how to reduce pollution without spending too much money. If companies take responsibility for their pollution, they might find ways to save money by being more efficient. Some people think this is better than having the government tell them what to do all the time.
In my opinion, both the government and companies need to work together to solve pollution problems. Governments should set clear rules and make sure everyone follows them. But companies should also try to do more than just follow the rules. They should look for new ways to be cleaner and more efficient. If both sides do their part, we can make real progress in reducing pollution.
To conclude, while governments have an important role in controlling pollution through laws and regulations, companies also need to take responsibility for their actions. The best solution is when governments and businesses work together to protect the environment.
(Word count: 280)
Band 5-6 Essay
Pollution is a big problem today. Some people think the government should make stronger rules to stop pollution. Other people think companies should reduce their own pollution. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Government control can be good because the government has power. They can make laws to stop companies from polluting too much. If companies don’t follow the rules, the government can punish them. This can make all companies be more careful about pollution.
But some people think companies should control their own pollution. Companies know their own business best. They might have good ideas to reduce pollution in their factories. If companies take responsibility, they might find ways to save money and be cleaner at the same time.
I think both the government and companies should work together. The government should make rules, but companies should also try to be cleaner on their own. If everyone works together, we can reduce pollution more.
In conclusion, pollution is a big problem that needs both government rules and company responsibility to solve. If everyone does their part, we can make the environment better.
(Word count: 175)
Analysis of Essay Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is logically organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively, and each paragraph has a clear central topic.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “pressing global concern,” “forceful approach,” “proactive,” and “synergistic relationship.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. It uses complex structures naturally and appropriately.
Development of Ideas: Each point is thoroughly developed with well-elaborated examples and explanations.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates competence but with some limitations:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but some aspects are covered more fully than others.
Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some cohesive devices are overused or underused.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. There are some attempts at less common vocabulary, but with some inaccuracy.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: There is a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Errors occur, but do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant but could be more fully extended and supported.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a modest attempt at the task:
Task Response: The essay addresses the task in a minimal way. The format of the response is not fully appropriate.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally coherent and uses basic cohesive devices, but not always appropriately.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited but adequate for basic communication. There is little variation in word choice.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentences are generally simple with limited complexity. Errors are frequent but do not greatly impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but underdeveloped. There is minimal explanation or example provided.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Enforcement (noun) – /ɪnˈfɔːsmənt/ – the act of compelling observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation
- Stringent (adjective) – /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – (of regulations, requirements, or conditions) strict, precise, and exacting
- Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – (of a person or action) creating or controlling a situation rather than just responding to it after it has happened
- Deterrent (noun) – /dɪˈterənt/ – a thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something
- Compliance (noun) – /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – the state or fact of according with or meeting rules or standards
- Incentive (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – a thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something
- Synergistic (adjective) – /ˌsɪnəˈdʒɪstɪk/ – relating to 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
- Sustainability (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – the amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc.
- Innovative (adjective) – /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ – featuring new methods; advanced and original
Conclusion
The topic of government enforcement of pollution controls is a crucial and recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying these sample essays and understanding the scoring criteria, you can better prepare for similar questions in your IELTS exam. Remember to address all parts of the question, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your ideas fully with relevant examples and explanations.
For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of individuals in reducing pollution
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
- The effectiveness of international agreements on climate change
You’re encouraged to post your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and boost your confidence for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
To learn more about environmental topics in IELTS, you might find these related articles helpful:
- Should Governments Introduce Stricter Regulations on Industrial Emissions?
- Describe a Famous Environmental Activist from Your Country
Good luck with your IELTS preparation!