The topic of air travel’s environmental impact has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past tests from 2018-2023, this theme appears approximately once every 4-6 months, particularly in questions about transportation, environment, and technological development. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this trend.
Some people believe that air travel should be restricted because it causes serious environmental damage. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Question Analysis
This is an agree/disagree essay that requires:
- A clear position on whether air travel restrictions are justified
- Discussion of environmental impacts
- Evaluation of potential consequences of restrictions
- Supporting arguments and examples
Expert analyzing environmental impact data of air travel
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
In recent years, there has been growing concern about aviation’s contribution to environmental degradation. While I acknowledge the significant environmental impact of air travel, I disagree that it should be restricted as there are more effective solutions to address this issue.
Air travel undeniably has substantial environmental consequences. Aircraft emissions contribute approximately 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, and this figure is projected to increase as air travel becomes more accessible. Additionally, the release of pollutants at high altitudes has a more severe impact on the atmosphere than ground-level emissions. However, implementing restrictions on air travel would be both impractical and potentially damaging to global development.
Instead of restrictions, I believe the focus should be on developing and implementing sustainable solutions. Technological innovations in aircraft design and fuel efficiency have already shown promising results in reducing emissions. For instance, modern aircraft are 80% more fuel-efficient than those from the 1960s. Furthermore, the aviation industry is actively investing in sustainable aviation fuels and electric aircraft technology, which could revolutionize air travel’s environmental impact within the next decade.
Moreover, air travel plays a crucial role in global economic development and cultural exchange. Restricting it would disproportionately affect developing nations that rely on tourism and international trade. A more balanced approach would be to implement carbon offset programs, invest in green technologies, and improve international cooperation in developing sustainable aviation solutions.
In conclusion, while the environmental concerns about air travel are valid, restrictions are not the answer. The focus should instead be on technological innovation and sustainable practices that can reduce aviation’s environmental impact while preserving its benefits to society.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Air travel is causing many environmental problems today. While some people think we should limit air travel, I partly disagree with this idea because there are other ways to solve this problem.
First, it is true that airplanes cause pollution. They release a lot of CO2 into the air and use lots of fuel. This is bad for our environment and contributes to global warming. Many scientists say that air travel is one of the biggest sources of pollution in the transport sector.
However, I don’t think restricting air travel is a good solution. Many people need to travel by air for business and family reasons. If we restrict air travel, it will affect many people’s lives and jobs. Airlines provide many jobs and help the economy grow. Also, tourism depends on air travel, and many countries need tourism money.
I think there are better solutions. For example, airlines can use better technology to make planes more efficient. They can also use cleaner fuels. Governments can encourage airlines to be more environmentally friendly through rules and taxes. People can also choose to fly less when possible and use video conferencing for business meetings.
In conclusion, while air travel does cause environmental problems, we should focus on making it more environmentally friendly rather than restricting it. This way, we can protect the environment without stopping people from traveling.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay:
- Clear position maintained throughout
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Excellent cohesion and paragraphing
- Minimal errors in grammar
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Clear but simpler position
- Basic development of ideas
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Adequate cohesion but less sophisticated
- Some grammatical errors but meaning clear
Key Vocabulary
- environmental degradation (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – deterioration of the environment
- aviation (n) /ˌeɪviˈeɪʃn/ – the flying or operating of aircraft
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – environmentally sound
- disproportionately (adv) /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənətli/ – to a degree that is too large or too small in comparison
- carbon offset (n) /ˈkɑːbən ˈɒfset/ – reduction in emissions to compensate for emissions elsewhere
In future tests, candidates might encounter variations of this topic focusing on:
- Comparing different modes of transportation
- Solutions for reducing aviation emissions
- Economic impacts of environmental regulations
Try writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
