Climate change and international agreements have become increasingly prominent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and The role of international organizations in addressing climate change, this theme is likely to remain significant in future tests.
International climate change agreements and their global implementation
Task Analysis and Sample Question
Some people believe that international agreements are essential for addressing climate change, while others think individual countries should be free to set their own environmental policies. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on climate change policy
- Provide balanced analysis
- Present and justify a personal viewpoint
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Climate change represents a global challenge that has sparked debate about whether international cooperation or national autonomy is more effective in addressing environmental issues. While both approaches have merit, I believe that international agreements are crucial for tackling this worldwide problem.
Proponents of national autonomy argue that individual countries should have the freedom to develop environmental policies tailored to their specific circumstances. For instance, developing nations like India might need more flexibility in transitioning to renewable energy sources while maintaining economic growth. Additionally, countries have different geographical conditions and natural resources, making standardized international policies potentially inefficient or impractical in some contexts.
However, Environmental issues: international vs. national tackling shows that climate change is inherently global in nature, making international cooperation essential. The atmosphere knows no borders, and greenhouse gas emissions from one country affect the entire planet. International agreements like the Paris Accord establish crucial frameworks for collective action, ensuring all nations work toward common goals. Moreover, these agreements facilitate technology transfer and financial support between developed and developing countries, creating a more equitable approach to environmental protection.
In my view, while national considerations are important, international agreements are indispensable for effective climate action. The complex nature of climate change requires coordinated global efforts, shared responsibilities, and mutual accountability. Without binding international commitments, countries might prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
There is much discussion about whether international agreements or individual country policies are better for dealing with climate change. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think each country should make its own environmental rules. They say that different countries have different problems and needs. For example, poor countries need to develop their economies and might not be able to follow strict environmental rules. Also, some countries have more money and technology to fight climate change than others.
On the other hand, importance of public awareness in combating climate change demonstrates that climate change affects everyone in the world. When one country pollutes the air, it affects other countries too. International agreements help countries work together and share solutions. They also help rich countries support poor countries in becoming more environmentally friendly.
I think international agreements are more important because climate change is a global problem. If countries only think about themselves, they might not do enough to protect the environment. However, when countries work together, they can make better progress in solving environmental problems.
Key Vocabulary
- mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – the action of reducing the severity or impact
- binding (adj) /ˈbaɪndɪŋ/ – (of an agreement) that must be obeyed
- autonomy (n) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom to govern oneself
- framework (n) /ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – basic structure of a system
- accountability (n) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility to someone or for some activity
Conclusion
The topic of international climate agreements continues to be relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of developed nations in global environmental protection
- Economic growth versus environmental protection
- International cooperation in renewable energy development
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
