The topic of government subsidies for eco-friendly technology in businesses is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. It falls under the broader category of environmental issues and government policies, which are frequently tested. Based on past exam trends and current global concerns, this topic has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that governments should provide financial assistance to companies that want to use eco-friendly technologies. Others believe that companies should pay for such technologies themselves. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government subsidies for eco-friendly technologies
- Discuss arguments against government subsidies (i.e., why companies should pay themselves)
- Provide their own opinion on the issue
The question tests the ability to present balanced arguments, use appropriate vocabulary related to environment and business, and structure a coherent essay with clear paragraphs.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies by businesses has become a contentious issue, with debate centering on whether governments should provide financial support or if companies should bear the costs themselves. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a personal viewpoint.
Proponents of government subsidies argue that financial assistance is crucial for widespread adoption of green technologies. Firstly, many eco-friendly solutions require substantial initial investments, which can be prohibitively expensive for small and medium-sized enterprises. Government support could level the playing field, enabling more businesses to transition to sustainable practices. Secondly, the benefits of reduced pollution and resource conservation extend beyond individual companies to society as a whole. Therefore, it is in the public interest for governments to incentivize such initiatives.
On the other hand, those opposing subsidies contend that businesses should be responsible for their own technological upgrades. They argue that companies profit from their operations and should, therefore, internalize all associated costs, including environmental ones. Moreover, reliance on government funding may lead to inefficiencies and reduced innovation, as companies might lack the motivation to develop cost-effective solutions independently. There is also concern about the fair distribution of public funds and potential for misuse.
In my opinion, a balanced approach combining both government support and corporate responsibility is most effective. While I believe that businesses should primarily finance their own eco-friendly initiatives, I recognize that strategic government subsidies can accelerate the transition to sustainable practices. These subsidies should be targeted, time-limited, and conditional on measurable environmental improvements. This approach would encourage businesses to innovate and invest in green technologies while providing necessary support to overcome initial hurdles.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments on both sides, a nuanced policy that primarily places responsibility on businesses but offers strategic government support is likely to yield the best outcomes for both the environment and the economy.
Government subsidies for eco-friendly technology in businesses
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should give money to companies for eco-friendly technology or if companies should pay for it themselves is a complex issue. There are good reasons for both sides, which I will discuss in this essay.
Some people think governments should help pay for green technology in businesses. One main reason is that it’s expensive to start using these technologies. Many companies, especially smaller ones, might not have enough money to buy them. If the government helps, more businesses can use eco-friendly methods. Also, when companies use green technology, it helps everyone by reducing pollution and saving resources. So, it makes sense for the government to support this.
However, others believe companies should pay for eco-friendly technology themselves. They say that businesses make money from what they do, so they should pay for all their costs, including being environmentally friendly. Some worry that if companies get government money, they might not try hard to find cheaper ways to be green. There’s also the question of whether it’s fair to use public money for private businesses.
In my opinion, I think both the government and companies should play a part. Companies should try to pay for most of their green technology because it’s part of doing business responsibly. But I also think the government can help sometimes, especially to get things started. Maybe they could give some money at first, but with rules about how it’s used and for how long.
To conclude, while companies should mainly pay for their own eco-friendly technology, some government help can be good to encourage more businesses to be environmentally friendly. This way, we can balance business needs with protecting the environment.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many people talk about eco-friendly technology for businesses. Some think the government should give money to companies for this, but others say companies should pay themselves. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, some people say the government should help pay. They think this because green technology is very expensive. Many companies don’t have enough money to buy it. If the government helps, more companies can use eco-friendly technology. This is good for the environment.
But other people think companies should pay for themselves. They say companies make money from their work, so they should pay for everything they need. Some people worry that if the government gives money, companies might not try to find cheaper ways to be green.
In my opinion, I think both ideas have good points. Companies should try to pay for eco-friendly technology because it’s part of their business. But sometimes, the government can help a little bit. This can make more companies start using green technology.
To finish, I think it’s good if companies pay most of the money for eco-friendly technology, but the government can help sometimes. This way, we can protect the environment and help businesses at the same time.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout. Presents fully extended and well-developed ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Skillfully manages paragraphing. Uses a wide range of cohesive devices appropriately.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally and accurately. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information and ideas coherently. Uses a range of cohesive devices but may be faulty or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. Makes some errors in word choice but does not impede communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task only partially. The format may be inappropriate in places. Presents some main ideas but these are limited and not sufficiently developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression. Uses some basic cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task. May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses only a limited range of structures. Attempts complex sentences but these tend to be less accurate than simple sentences. May make frequent grammatical errors; meaning can be obscured.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Score Comparison
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
- Subsidize (verb) – /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/ – support financially
- Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – motivate or encourage
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.
- Transition (noun) – /trænˈzɪʃn/ – the process of changing from one state or condition to another
- Internalize (verb) – /ɪnˈtɜːnəlaɪz/ – make (attitudes or behavior) part of one’s nature by learning or unconscious assimilation
- Prohibitively (adverb) – /prəˈhɪbɪtɪvli/ – to a degree that prevents something from happening or makes it impractical
- Contend (verb) – /kənˈtend/ – assert something as a position in an argument
- Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
In conclusion, the topic of government subsidies for eco-friendly technologies in businesses is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of tax incentives in promoting green business practices
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in developing countries
- The effectiveness of international agreements in promoting sustainable business practices
To practice, try writing your own essay on the given topic or one of these related themes. 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!
