Geoengineering and climate change have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of environment-related questions since 2019. This reflects growing global concern about climate solutions and technological interventions.
Analysis of Common Test Questions
Recent IELTS exams have featured several variations of geoengineering questions. A frequently appearing format is:
Some people believe that geoengineering and technological solutions are the best ways to tackle climate change, while others think changing human behavior and consumption patterns is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Illustration showing geoengineering concepts and climate change solutions
Question Analysis
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting approaches to climate change
- Evaluation of technological vs behavioral solutions
- Clear personal stance
- Balanced analysis of both perspectives
- Relevant examples and supporting evidence
Sample Essays
Band 8 Model Essay
Climate change poses one of humanity’s greatest challenges, and there is ongoing debate about whether technological interventions or behavioral changes offer the most effective solution. While both approaches have merit, I believe a combination of innovative technologies and modified human behavior is essential for addressing this crisis.
Proponents of geoengineering argue that technological solutions provide the most efficient and rapid response to climate change. Advanced carbon capture systems, solar radiation management, and atmospheric modification techniques could potentially reduce global temperatures and greenhouse gas levels more quickly than gradual behavioral changes. For instance, recent experiments with cloud brightening technology have shown promising results in reflecting solar radiation and cooling specific regions.
However, those advocating for behavioral change emphasize that technological solutions alone cannot address the root causes of climate change. They argue that sustainable consumption patterns, reduced meat consumption, and decreased reliance on fossil fuels are fundamental to long-term environmental stability. Countries like Denmark have demonstrated how changes in consumer behavior and energy usage can significantly reduce carbon emissions without relying solely on technological intervention.
In my view, the most effective approach combines both strategies. While geoengineering can provide immediate impact and address urgent climate issues, lasting solution requires fundamental changes in human behavior and consumption patterns. The success of countries implementing both technological innovations and public awareness campaigns demonstrates the effectiveness of this dual approach.
Comparison of technological and behavioral approaches to climate change
Band 6.5 Model Essay
Today, many people discuss different ways to solve climate change problems. Some think technology like geoengineering is the best solution, but others believe changing how people live is more important. I think both ideas have good points.
Geoengineering can help fight climate change in many ways. Scientists can use big machines to remove carbon dioxide from the air and put special particles in the sky to block sunlight. These methods work faster than waiting for people to change their habits. For example, some companies are already using new machines to catch CO2 from factory smoke.
But changing human behavior is also very important. If people use less electricity, drive less cars, and eat less meat, it helps reduce pollution. Many countries teach their citizens to save energy and use public transport. This has helped reduce their carbon footprint.
I think we need both solutions to solve climate problems. Technology can help us quickly, but people must also change how they live. Countries should invest in new technology while teaching people to live in more environmentally friendly ways.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “technological interventions,” “solar radiation management”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization and coherent arguments
- Specific examples and evidence
- Balanced discussion with clear position
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Some development of ideas
- Limited use of complex language
- Basic examples provided
Key Vocabulary
- Geoengineering (n) /ˌdʒiːəʊˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – large-scale intervention in Earth’s climate system
- Solar radiation management (n) /ˈsəʊlə reɪdiˈeɪʃn ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – techniques to reflect sunlight
- Carbon capture (n) /ˈkɑːbən ˈkæptʃə/ – technology to remove CO2 from atmosphere
- Atmospheric modification (n) /ætməsˈferɪk mɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – changing atmosphere composition
- Consumption patterns (n) /kənˈsʌmpʃn ˈpætənz/ – ways people use resources
Future practice topics might include:
- Comparing different geoengineering technologies
- Cost-benefit analysis of climate solutions
- Environmental ethics of technological intervention
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
