The topic of a global ban on single-use plastics has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing environmental concerns worldwide, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Global Ban on Single-Use Plastics
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that a complete ban on single-use plastics is the only way to solve the problem of plastic pollution. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires you to discuss your opinion on whether a total ban on single-use plastics is the sole solution to plastic pollution. You need to consider the effectiveness of such a ban and possibly explore alternative or complementary approaches.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, with single-use plastics being a major contributor to this global crisis. While some argue that a complete ban on these items is the only viable solution, I partially agree with this stance, believing that while it is a crucial step, it should be part of a more comprehensive approach to tackle the problem effectively.
Undoubtedly, implementing a total ban on single-use plastics would significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste entering our ecosystems. These items, such as disposable bags, straws, and packaging, constitute a large portion of the plastic pollution found in our oceans and landfills. By eliminating their production and distribution, we could drastically cut down on the volume of plastic waste generated daily. Moreover, a ban would force industries and consumers to seek out and develop more sustainable alternatives, potentially catalyzing innovation in eco-friendly materials and practices.
However, it is essential to recognize that a ban alone may not be sufficient to solve the complex issue of plastic pollution entirely. There are several reasons why a more multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, enforcing a global ban would be challenging, requiring cooperation from all nations and effective monitoring systems. Secondly, some single-use plastics serve critical purposes in medical and scientific fields, where suitable alternatives may not yet exist. Lastly, simply banning these items without addressing the underlying culture of disposability and overconsumption may lead to unintended consequences, such as the increased use of other environmentally harmful materials.
Therefore, I believe that while a ban on single-use plastics is a crucial component of the solution, it should be accompanied by other measures. These could include investing in research and development of biodegradable materials, implementing robust recycling systems, educating the public about responsible consumption, and incentivizing businesses to adopt sustainable practices. By combining these strategies with a phased ban on non-essential single-use plastics, we can create a more holistic and effective approach to combating plastic pollution.
In conclusion, while I agree that banning single-use plastics is an essential step towards solving the problem of plastic pollution, I believe it is not the only solution. A comprehensive strategy that combines prohibition with education, innovation, and systemic changes in our approach to consumption and waste management is necessary to address this global environmental challenge effectively.
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that warrant a high band score:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a well-developed argument. It acknowledges the importance of a ban while also discussing its limitations and suggesting additional measures.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically connected using a range of cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “catalyzing innovation,” “multifaceted approach,” and “underlying culture of disposability.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively, and there are no noticeable errors.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
Plastic pollution is a big problem in our world today, and some people think that banning all single-use plastics is the only way to fix it. I partly agree with this idea, but I think we need to do more than just ban plastics to really solve the problem.
Banning single-use plastics would definitely help reduce plastic pollution. These plastics, like plastic bags and straws, are a big part of the trash we see in the oceans and on land. If we stop making and using them, there will be less plastic waste. Also, if these plastics are banned, companies and people will have to find other options that are better for the environment. This could lead to new ideas for eco-friendly products.
However, I don’t think a ban alone is enough to solve all the problems with plastic pollution. There are a few reasons why we need to do more. First, it would be hard to ban single-use plastics everywhere in the world. Some countries might not agree or might not be able to enforce the ban. Second, some single-use plastics are important for things like medicine, and we might not have good alternatives for these yet. Lastly, if we just ban plastics without changing how people think about using and throwing away things, people might just start using other things that are also bad for the environment.
I think we need to do more than just ban single-use plastics. We should also teach people about using less plastic, make better recycling systems, and encourage companies to use materials that are good for the environment. If we do all these things together with banning some single-use plastics, we can make a bigger difference in reducing plastic pollution.
In conclusion, I believe that banning single-use plastics is important, but it’s not the only thing we need to do to solve the problem of plastic pollution. We need a plan that includes banning some plastics, but also focuses on education, new ideas, and changing how we use and throw away things. This way, we can better tackle the big problem of plastic pollution in our world.
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good qualities that align with a Band 6-7 score:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be further developed and supported with more specific examples.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear overall progression. Paragraphing is logical, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “eco-friendly”), but the language is generally more straightforward compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are no major errors that impede communication, but the range of structures is more limited compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Single-use plastics (noun) – /ˈsɪŋɡl juːz ˈplæstɪks/ – Plastic items intended to be used only once before being thrown away
- Plastic pollution (noun) – /ˈplæstɪk pəˈluːʃn/ – Environmental contamination caused by plastic waste
- Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
- Biodegradable (adjective) – /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – A new method, idea, product, etc.
- Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
- Comprehensive (adjective) – /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
- Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – Motivate or encourage (someone) to do something
- Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
Conclusion
The topic of a global ban on single-use plastics is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams due to its global significance. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that discuss environmental policies, consumer behavior, and sustainable development. Some potential related questions you might encounter could include:
- Discuss the potential economic impacts of banning single-use plastics.
- Should governments focus on educating consumers about plastic use rather than implementing bans?
- To what extent can technological innovations solve the problem of plastic pollution?
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and feel free to share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.