Corporate accountability for environmental sustainability has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme reflects the growing global concern about the impact of businesses on our planet. Based on recent trends, we can expect this subject to appear more frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that companies should be required to take responsibility for reducing environmental damage. Others think that it is the government’s role to protect the environment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the debate over who should bear the primary responsibility for environmental protection – corporations or governments. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that companies should be responsible for reducing environmental damage.
- Discuss the view that governments should be responsible for protecting the environment.
- Provide and justify their own opinion on the matter.
Let’s examine sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this question effectively.
Sample Essay for Band 8
Environmental protection has become a critical global concern, and there is ongoing debate about whether corporations or governments should take the lead in this effort. While both entities have crucial roles to play, I believe that a collaborative approach is necessary, with companies bearing the primary responsibility for reducing their environmental impact.
Those who argue for corporate accountability assert that businesses are often the direct source of environmental damage through their operations, production processes, and waste management practices. By holding companies accountable, we can address environmental issues at their source. Moreover, many corporations have the financial resources and technological capabilities to implement sustainable practices more efficiently than governments. For instance, tech giants like Apple and Google have made significant strides in reducing their carbon footprint and investing in renewable energy, demonstrating that corporate initiative can lead to substantial environmental benefits.
On the other hand, proponents of government-led environmental protection argue that only governments have the authority to create and enforce regulations that apply to all businesses equally. They contend that without strict governmental oversight, companies might prioritize profits over environmental concerns. Governments can implement comprehensive policies, such as carbon taxes or emissions trading systems, that create economic incentives for businesses to reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, governments can fund research and development in clean technologies and provide subsidies for environmentally friendly practices.
In my opinion, while government regulation is essential, the primary responsibility for reducing environmental damage should lie with companies. Businesses have the most direct control over their environmental impact and are often best positioned to develop innovative solutions. However, I believe that the most effective approach is a partnership between corporations and governments. Governments should set clear environmental standards and provide incentives for sustainable practices, while companies should proactively work to exceed these standards and drive innovation in environmental sustainability.
To achieve meaningful progress, we need a synergistic relationship where corporate accountability is reinforced by robust government policies. This approach can create a positive feedback loop, with companies competing to be environmental leaders and governments continuously raising the bar for environmental protection. By combining the agility and innovation of the private sector with the regulatory power and long-term planning of governments, we can more effectively address the complex environmental challenges facing our planet.
(Word count: 366)
Analysis of Band 8 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a Band 8 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, and appropriate linking words are used to connect ideas.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “carbon footprint,” “emissions trading systems,” and “synergistic relationship” demonstrate a high level of lexical resource.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. It demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation throughout.
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows depth of critical thinking, especially in the conclusion where it proposes a collaborative approach between businesses and governments.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
There is a debate about who should be responsible for protecting the environment – companies or governments. Both sides have valid points, but I think both should work together to solve environmental problems.
Some people believe that companies should be responsible for reducing environmental damage. This is because many businesses cause pollution and use up natural resources in their operations. If companies take responsibility, they can directly reduce their impact on the environment. For example, factories can install filters to reduce air pollution, and offices can use less paper to save trees. Also, big companies have a lot of money, so they can invest in new technologies that are better for the environment.
On the other hand, some people think it’s the government’s job to protect the environment. Governments can make laws that all companies must follow. This is important because not all companies will voluntarily protect the environment if it costs them money. Governments can also punish companies that break environmental laws. Moreover, governments can create national parks and protected areas to preserve nature. They can also educate people about environmental issues through schools and public campaigns.
In my opinion, both companies and governments have important roles in protecting the environment. Companies should take responsibility for their actions and try to reduce their negative impact. At the same time, governments should set rules and encourage good behavior. I think this combination is necessary because the environmental problems we face are very big and complex.
For example, to reduce plastic pollution, companies can develop alternatives to plastic packaging, while governments can ban single-use plastics and promote recycling programs. By working together, they can make a bigger difference than if they worked separately.
In conclusion, while companies and governments have different strengths in protecting the environment, the best solution is for them to cooperate. This way, we can use the resources and abilities of both to tackle environmental challenges more effectively.
(Word count: 329)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a Band 6-7 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be developed more fully.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. Some linking words are used, but the cohesion could be improved.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate, but lacks the sophistication seen in higher band scores. There’s some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “voluntarily,” “alternatives”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range of structures is not as wide as in a Band 8 essay.
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows some evidence of critical thinking, particularly in the conclusion where it suggests cooperation between companies and governments. However, the ideas could be explored in more depth.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Corporate accountability (noun) – /ˌkɔːrpərət əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – The responsibility of a company for its actions and their consequences.
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Environmental sustainability (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˌmentl səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The practice of interacting with the environment in a way that ensures the long-term availability of natural resources.
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Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of an individual’s, organization’s, or nation’s activities.
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Emissions trading system (noun) – /ɪˈmɪʃənz ˈtreɪdɪŋ ˈsɪstəm/ – A market-based approach to controlling pollution by providing economic incentives for reducing emissions of pollutants.
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Synergistic (adjective) – /ˌsɪnərˈdʒɪstɪk/ – Relating to the interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements.
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Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – To motivate or encourage someone to do something by offering them a reward.
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Proactive (adjective) – /proʊˈæktɪv/ – Acting in anticipation of future problems, needs, or changes.
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Regulatory (adjective) – /ˈreɡjələtɔːri/ – Relating to or concerned with regulation.
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Sustainable practices (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – Methods of using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged.
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Environmental stewardship (noun phrase) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ – The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Corporate accountability for environmental sustainability is a complex and nuanced topic that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. By analyzing the sample essays provided, you can see how to effectively structure your arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and demonstrate critical thinking in your IELTS Writing Task 2 responses.
As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of international agreements in addressing global environmental issues.
- The impact of consumer choices on corporate environmental practices.
- The effectiveness of environmental regulations versus market-based solutions.
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing essays, but understanding how to approach different types of questions and express your ideas clearly and coherently. Practice writing your own essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- How Social Media is Influencing Corporate Social Responsibility
- Should Fast Fashion Companies be Held Accountable for Environmental Damage?
- Should Governments Impose Stricter Environmental Regulations on Corporations?
Good luck with your IELTS preparation!