The topic of green infrastructure investment in urban areas has become increasingly prominent in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly as cities worldwide grapple with The effects of climate change on urban infrastructure. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, this theme appears approximately once every 3-4 months, often integrated with questions about environmental protection, urban planning, or government spending.
Green infrastructure solutions for sustainable urban development showing parks and green spaces
Task Analysis
Some people believe that governments should invest more in green infrastructure in urban areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on government investment in green infrastructure
- Provide specific examples and reasoning
- Consider both environmental and economic implications
- Structure arguments logically with appropriate examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In my opinion, I strongly agree that governments should substantially increase their investment in green infrastructure within cities, as this approach offers multiple benefits for both environmental sustainability and urban livability.
Firstly, green infrastructure development is crucial for addressing how to manage the effects of overpopulation in urban areas. Urban green spaces, such as parks, green roofs, and vertical gardens, significantly improve air quality by filtering pollutants and reducing the urban heat island effect. Moreover, these installations help manage stormwater runoff, reducing flood risks and decreasing pressure on traditional drainage systems.
Secondly, investing in green infrastructure creates substantial economic benefits. Studies have shown that properties near well-maintained green spaces typically increase in value by 15-20%, generating higher tax revenues for local governments. Additionally, green infrastructure projects create numerous jobs in design, construction, and maintenance sectors, contributing to economic growth while promoting environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, The role of technology in environmental protection can be enhanced through green infrastructure investments. Smart gardens and bioswales equipped with sensors can provide valuable data for urban planning while improving biodiversity and creating wildlife corridors within cities. These technological integrations make cities more resilient to climate change while fostering innovation in sustainable urban development.
In conclusion, government investment in urban green infrastructure is essential for creating sustainable, livable cities that can meet the challenges of climate change while providing economic and social benefits to residents.
Benefits of urban green infrastructure showing improved air quality and reduced heat island effect
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that governments should put more money into green infrastructure in cities because it helps the environment and makes cities better places to live.
First, green infrastructure helps solve environmental problems in cities. When cities have more parks and trees, the air becomes cleaner because plants remove pollution from the air. Also, green areas help how to reduce noise levels in urban areas by blocking sound from traffic and other city activities.
Second, green infrastructure makes cities more pleasant for people. Parks and gardens give people places to exercise and relax, which is important for health. Also, when there are more green spaces, the temperature in cities is lower in summer, which makes everyone more comfortable.
However, some people might say that green infrastructure is too expensive. But I think the benefits are worth the cost because these projects help save money on things like air conditioning and flood control in the long term.
In conclusion, I believe governments should invest in green infrastructure because it helps both the environment and people living in cities.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear position with fully developed ideas
- Coherence/Cohesion: Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary used naturally
- Grammar: Wide range of complex structures
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear position but less developed support
- Coherence/Cohesion: Basic organization with some logical progression
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary with some errors
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex sentences
Key Vocabulary
- green infrastructure (n.) /ɡriːn ˌɪnfrəˈstrʌktʃə/ – environmentally friendly facilities and systems
- urban heat island (n.) /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd/ – metropolitan area warmer than surroundings
- bioswale (n.) /ˈbaɪəʊsweɪl/ – landscaped element for filtering pollution from surface runoff water
- sustainability (n.) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain ecological balance
- resilient (adj.) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand or recover from difficulties
Consider practicing with similar topics like sustainable transport infrastructure or renewable energy implementation in cities. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
