The debate between the economic benefits and environmental impacts of oil drilling is a prevalent topic in many international discussions. Within the IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, this subject has seen recurrent appearances due to its relevance and the critical thinking it demands from test-takers. Historical data from past exam topics indicate that environmental issues and economic development are frequently examined prompts. Given the continuous relevance of fossil fuels and the global discourse on sustainability, future IELTS exams are likely to feature similar topics.
Relevant Past IELTS Prompts
- Economic growth is essential for a nation’s development, but some believe environmental protection is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Some people argue that oil drilling is essential for economic benefits, while others believe it poses significant environmental harms. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- Many believe that economic development should not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Given these examples, we will select the second topic as our reference for this writing task.
Detailed Analysis
Chosen Prompt
Some people argue that oil drilling is essential for economic benefits, while others believe it poses significant environmental harms. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Prompt Analysis
Keywords and Synonyms:
- Oil drilling: extraction of oil, petroleum extraction
- Economic benefits: financial gains, economic growth, economic development
- Environmental harms: ecological damage, environmental degradation, pollution
Task Requirements:
- Discuss both views: Clearly analyze both the economic and environmental perspectives.
- Provide an opinion: Conclude with your standpoint, supported by the discussion provided.
Sample Essay
Some people assert that oil drilling is crucial for economic development, while others contend that it causes significant environmental damage. This essay will examine both perspectives before arriving at a reasoned conclusion.
On one hand, oil drilling is seen as a cornerstone of economic prosperity. This industry generates vast revenues for oil-exporting countries, contributing enormously to their GDP. A prime example is the Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, where oil reserves have transformed the economic landscape, raising living standards and fostering infrastructural development. Furthermore, the oil industry creates numerous job opportunities, which reduces unemployment rates and boosts the local economy. In this view, the absence of oil drilling could lead to economic instability and a drastic decrease in national wealth.
On the other hand, the environmental repercussions of oil drilling are both profound and concerning. The extraction process involves significant disruption of ecosystems, leading to habitat loss for many species. Additionally, oil spills, such as the Deepwater Horizon spill in 2010, highlight the catastrophic impacts that drilling accidents can have on marine life and coastal environments. There is also the problem of air and water pollution caused by drilling and related activities, exacerbating climate change and posing health risks to local communities. These environmental costs question the sustainability of continued reliance on oil extraction and call for a shift towards renewable energy sources.
oil spill environmental damage
In my opinion, while the economic benefits of oil drilling are undeniable, the environmental costs are too significant to ignore. Sustainable development requires a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation. A possible solution could involve investing in and transitioning towards renewable energy sources, which would provide long-term economic benefits while minimizing ecological damage. By doing so, nations can ensure resilient economic growth without compromising the environment for future generations.
Word Count: 302
Key Points and Vocabulary Analysis
Vocabulary:
- Cornerstone (noun, /ˈkɔrnərˌstoʊn/): an important quality or feature on which a particular thing depends or is based.
- Prosperity (noun, /prɒˈspɛrɪti/): the state of being successful, especially financially.
- Transformed (verb, /trænsˈfɔrmd/): to make a marked change in the form, nature, or appearance of.
- Repercussions (noun, /ˌriːpəˈkʌʃənz/): unintended consequences occurring after an event or action.
- Exacerbating (verb, /ɪɡˈzæsərˌbeɪtɪŋ/): making a problem, situation, or negative feeling worse.
Sentence Structures:
- Comparative clauses: “While the economic benefits… the environmental costs are…”
- Conditional clauses: “If countries continue to rely on…”
- Subordinate clauses: “Given the extensive…”
Tips for Writing about Economic and Environmental Topics
- Use data and examples: Provide real-world instances to validate your points.
- Balance your arguments: Ensure that both sides of the discussion are equally represented.
- Express a clear opinion: Your conclusion should clearly state your standpoint and be supported by the main body paragraphs.
- Vocabulary variety: Use synonyms and varied expressions to avoid redundancy.
- Keep an academic tone: Maintain formality and objectivity throughout the essay.
Conclusion
In summary, discussing the economic benefits versus the environmental impact of oil drilling involves a balanced analysis of both perspectives. This essay has provided a detailed examination of the subject, incorporating useful vocabulary and structures suitable for an IELTS Writing Task 2 response. Future IELTS candidates can anticipate similar topics revolving around the balance between economic development and environmental sustainability, making these discussions highly relevant for practice.
Practice Prompts:
- Economic development must prioritize environmental sustainability. Discuss.
- Discuss the impact of renewable energy as a substitute for oil drilling.
Use these prompts to enhance your writing skills and prepare thoroughly for the IELTS Writing Task 2 examination.
