Climate Change and Public Health: An IELTS Writing Task 2 Guide

The intersection of climate change and public health is a hot topic, and understandably so. As our planet warms, the consequences for human health become increasingly apparent. This makes it a prime subject for IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. By understanding the link between these two global issues, you can formulate well-structured and insightful responses that demonstrate your grasp of complex societal problems.

This guide explores this crucial subject, providing you with a sample essay question, a band-high scoring model answer, key vocabulary, and expert tips to help you achieve your desired IELTS score.

Here are a few real exam questions asked previously or are very similar to previously asked questions that fall under this theme:

• “Some people believe that climate change is the biggest threat to public health in the 21st century. Others believe that other factors, such as poverty and infectious diseases, are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
• “The increase in the production of consumer goods is having a negative impact on the environment. Some people believe that we need to reduce consumption. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
• “What are the effects of climate change on people’s health, and what actions can be taken to address this issue?”

Sample Essay Question

For this guide, we will focus on the following question:

Many people argue that climate change is the most serious threat to public health. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Analysis of the Question

This question requires you to present a clear stance on whether climate change poses the most serious threat to public health. It’s crucial to:

• Address both sides: Acknowledge alternative threats to public health while presenting a clear argument about the significance of climate change.
• Provide evidence: Support your claims with specific examples and relevant information.
• Structure your essay logically: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs with distinct points, and a concise conclusion.

Model Essay

Climate change is often cited as the most pressing issue facing humanity, with potential ramifications for every aspect of life, including public health. While other factors certainly impact well-being, I firmly believe that climate change poses the most serious threat to public health in the 21st century.

Undeniably, poverty, infectious diseases, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure remain significant challenges. These factors, particularly prevalent in developing nations, contribute to high mortality rates and a reduced quality of life. However, climate change acts as a threat multiplier, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and creating new ones.

Firstly, rising global temperatures contribute to the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. As warmer temperatures expand the geographical range of disease-carrying insects, more populations become vulnerable. Moreover, extreme weather events like floods and droughts, increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change, disrupt sanitation systems and contaminate water sources, leading to outbreaks of waterborne illnesses. The World Health Organization estimates that climate change will cause an additional 250,000 deaths annually between 2030 and 2050 due to these factors.

Furthermore, air pollution, exacerbated by the burning of fossil fuels, a major contributor to climate change, has severe respiratory consequences. The World Bank estimates that air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths each year, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Addressing climate change by transitioning to cleaner energy sources would have a direct, positive impact on respiratory health globally.

In conclusion, while other factors contribute to global health challenges, the scale and scope of climate change’s impact on public health are unparalleled. From the spread of infectious diseases to the rise in respiratory illnesses, the evidence is clear: climate change is the most significant threat to global health in the 21st century. Therefore, mitigating its effects through sustainable practices, technological innovation, and international cooperation is paramount for ensuring a healthier future for all.

Climate Change and Public Health

(Word Count: 298 words)

Notes on the Essay

• Vocabulary: The essay uses specific and sophisticated vocabulary related to the topic, such as “threat multiplier,” “vector-borne diseases,” “exacerbating,” “vulnerabilities,” and “paramount.”
• Grammar: The essay demonstrates a good command of grammar, including complex sentence structures and a variety of grammatical structures.
• Structure: The essay follows a clear and logical structure, with a strong thesis statement, well-developed supporting paragraphs, and a concise conclusion.
• Evidence: The essay uses statistics and expert opinions (e.g., the World Health Organization, the World Bank) to support the main argument.

Key Vocabulary

1. Climate Change (n.): Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. (/’klaɪmət ‘ʧeɪndʒ/)
2. Public Health (n.): The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts. (/ˈpʌblɪk ‘hɛlθ/)
3. Threat Multiplier (n.): A factor that exacerbates existing risks and vulnerabilities. (/ θrɛt ‘mʌltɪˌplaɪər/)
4. Vector-borne Diseases (n.): Illnesses spread by organisms, like mosquitoes or ticks. (/ˈvɛktər bɔːrn dɪˈzizɪz/)
5. Exacerbate (v.): To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse. (/ɪɡˈzæsərˌbeɪt/)
6. Vulnerability (n.): The quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed. (/ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/)
7. Waterborne Illnesses (n.): Diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms in water. (/ˈwɔːtərˌbɔːrn ˈɪlnəsɪz/)
8. Premature Deaths (n.): Deaths that occur before the average life expectancy. (/ˌpriməˈtʃʊr dɛθs/)
9. Mitigate (v.): To make something less severe, serious, or painful. (/ˈmɪtɪˌɡeɪt/)
10. Paramount (adj.): More important than anything else; supreme. (/ˈpærəˌmaʊnt/)

Conclusion and Future Predictions

This guide has provided a comprehensive look at how to approach an IELTS Writing Task 2 question on climate change and public health. Remember to use accurate data, compelling examples, and clear arguments to strengthen your essay.

As climate change remains a pressing global challenge, similar essay questions are likely to appear in future IELTS exams. Other potential areas of focus might include the impact of climate change on mental health, the ethical considerations of climate change and healthcare, or the role of technology in mitigating climate change’s health consequences. By staying informed about these issues and practicing your writing skills, you can confidently tackle any IELTS question on this vital topic.