Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Ethical Sourcing in Supply Chains

IELTS Mentor

3 months ago

Ethical sourcing in supply chains is a topic of growing importance in the business world and has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a popular theme due to its global significance. Let’s explore this topic in depth and prepare for potential questions you might encounter in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Topic and Possible Questions

The concept of ethical sourcing in supply chains encompasses various aspects such as fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and responsible procurement. Based on past IELTS exams and current trends, here are some potential questions you might encounter:

Some people believe that companies should be held responsible for the ethical practices of their suppliers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of implementing ethical sourcing practices in global supply chains.
Many consumers are now demanding ethically sourced products. What are the reasons for this trend, and what impact might it have on businesses and the economy?

For this article, we’ll focus on the first question as it represents a common IELTS Writing Task 2 format and addresses a crucial aspect of ethical sourcing.

Sample Essay Question and Analysis

Some people believe that companies should be held responsible for the ethical practices of their suppliers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question requires you to express your opinion on whether companies should be accountable for the ethical practices of their suppliers. Key points to consider:

Understand the meaning of “ethical practices” in the context of suppliers.
Consider the extent of responsibility companies should have.
Think about the implications for businesses, consumers, and society.
Develop arguments for and against the statement to support your position.

Ethical sourcing in global supply chain

Sample Essay

Here’s a sample essay addressing the question:

In today’s globalized economy, the ethical practices of suppliers have come under increasing scrutiny, with many arguing that companies should bear responsibility for ensuring their supply chains adhere to ethical standards. I strongly agree with this viewpoint, as it not only promotes corporate social responsibility but also drives positive change throughout the business ecosystem.

Firstly, companies have significant influence over their suppliers and are often the primary beneficiaries of the supply chain. By holding firms accountable for their suppliers’ practices, we encourage them to leverage this influence positively. For instance, when large corporations like Nike or Apple demand ethical labor practices from their suppliers, it can lead to improved working conditions for thousands of workers in developing countries. This ripple effect demonstrates the power companies have in shaping ethical standards across their entire supply network.

Moreover, consumers increasingly base their purchasing decisions on ethical considerations. When companies take responsibility for their suppliers’ practices, they build trust with consumers and protect their brand reputation. The case of Patagonia, an outdoor clothing company, illustrates this point well. By actively monitoring and improving the ethical standards of its suppliers, Patagonia has cultivated a loyal customer base that values sustainability and fair labor practices.

However, it is important to acknowledge the challenges companies face in implementing full supply chain accountability. Global supply chains can be complex and opaque, making it difficult to monitor every aspect of a supplier’s operations. Additionally, smaller companies may lack the resources to conduct thorough audits of their suppliers. Nevertheless, I believe these challenges can be overcome through collaboration, technology, and gradual implementation of ethical sourcing practices.

In conclusion, while there are practical difficulties, the benefits of holding companies responsible for their suppliers’ ethical practices far outweigh the challenges. This approach not only promotes corporate social responsibility but also drives positive change throughout the global economy. As consumers become more conscious of ethical issues, companies that take this responsibility seriously will likely see long-term benefits in terms of brand loyalty and sustainable growth.

(Word count: 309)

Writing Tips for This Topic

Vocabulary: Use subject-specific terms like “supply chain,” “ethical sourcing,” and “corporate social responsibility” to demonstrate your understanding of the topic.
Structure: Clearly state your position in the introduction and use separate paragraphs for each main point. Ensure a logical flow of ideas throughout the essay.
Examples: Incorporate real-world examples of companies and their ethical sourcing practices to support your arguments.
Balance: While expressing your opinion, acknowledge the counterarguments to show a nuanced understanding of the issue.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your position, possibly with a forward-looking statement about the future of ethical sourcing.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

Ethical sourcing (noun) /ˈeθɪkəl ˈsɔːsɪŋ/ – The process of ensuring that the products being sourced are created in safe facilities with responsible labor practices.
Supply chain (noun) /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/ – The network between a company and its suppliers to produce and distribute a specific product.
Corporate social responsibility (noun) /ˈkɔːpərət ˈsəʊʃəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪlɪti/ – A company’s commitment to manage the social, environmental and economic effects of its operations responsibly.
Transparency (noun) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – The quality of being open and honest in business practices.
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level, especially regarding the balance of resource consumption and environmental impact.
Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – The fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility.
Audit (noun/verb) /ˈɔːdɪt/ – An official inspection of an organization’s accounts and practices, typically by an independent body.

For more information on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

Conclusion

Ethical sourcing in supply chains is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key concepts, developing a range of vocabulary, and practicing with various question types, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this subject in your exam. Remember to stay informed about current trends in business ethics and global trade, as these can provide valuable examples and insights for your essays. Some potential future questions might explore the role of technology in enhancing supply chain transparency or the impact of ethical sourcing on developing economies. Keep practicing, and good luck with your IELTS preparation!