Environmental protection has become a critical global issue, and the debate over who should bear the primary responsibility – governments or individuals – is a frequent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This essay question has appeared multiple times in recent years and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and analysis.
Some people believe that the responsibility for protecting the environment lies with individuals, while others think governments should be in charge. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that individuals are responsible for environmental protection
- Discuss the view that governments should be responsible
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Environmental protection is undoubtedly one of the most pressing issues of our time, and there is ongoing debate about whether the onus should fall on individuals or governments. While both parties have important roles to play, I believe that a collaborative approach is necessary for effective environmental stewardship.
Those who argue for individual responsibility often point to the cumulative impact of personal choices. Every decision, from using reusable shopping bags to opting for public transportation, contributes to the overall environmental footprint. Individuals are also consumers, and their purchasing power can drive market trends towards more sustainable products and services. Moreover, grassroots movements and community initiatives often start with committed individuals, demonstrating the potential for bottom-up change.
On the other hand, proponents of government-led environmental protection emphasize the need for systemic change and regulation. Governments have the power to enact and enforce environmental laws, implement large-scale green infrastructure projects, and negotiate international agreements. They can also provide incentives for eco-friendly practices and impose penalties on polluters. Furthermore, governments can allocate substantial resources towards research and development of clean technologies, which is often beyond the capacity of individuals.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to environmental protection involves a synergy between individual actions and governmental policies. While individuals must take responsibility for their personal impact and choices, governments need to create an enabling environment that makes sustainable living accessible and affordable. For instance, a government might invest in public transportation infrastructure, making it easier for individuals to reduce their carbon emissions. Similarly, individuals might pressure their governments to adopt more stringent environmental policies through voting and activism.
The role of international treaties in protecting the environment further underscores the importance of governmental involvement, as these agreements often set the framework for national environmental policies. However, the success of these treaties ultimately depends on the actions of individuals and businesses within each country.
In conclusion, while the debate often frames environmental responsibility as a choice between individual and governmental action, the reality is that both are indispensable. A holistic approach that combines personal accountability with strong governmental leadership and policy-making is our best hope for addressing the environmental challenges we face.
Environmental responsibility: Individual and government collaboration
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of who should be responsible for protecting the environment – individuals or governments – is a complex one. Both sides have important roles to play in addressing environmental issues.
On one hand, individuals can make a significant impact through their daily choices. By recycling, using energy-efficient appliances, and reducing water consumption, people can reduce their personal carbon footprint. Additionally, individuals can support environmentally friendly companies and products, which can encourage businesses to adopt more sustainable practices. Many environmental organizations also rely on individual volunteers and donations to carry out their work.
On the other hand, governments have the power to implement large-scale changes that can have a much broader impact. They can create and enforce environmental regulations, invest in renewable energy sources, and provide incentives for green technologies. Governments can also educate the public about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. Moreover, they can participate in international agreements to address global environmental challenges.
In my opinion, both individuals and governments must work together to protect the environment effectively. While individual actions are important, they are not enough on their own to address major environmental problems like climate change. Governments need to provide the framework and support for sustainable practices, while individuals need to take responsibility for their own actions and choices.
For example, a government might implement a plastic bag ban, but it’s up to individuals to remember to bring reusable bags when shopping. Similarly, Should governments regulate the fashion industry to promote sustainability is a question that highlights the interplay between governmental policies and individual consumer choices in promoting environmental protection.
In conclusion, protecting the environment requires effort from both individuals and governments. By working together and each taking responsibility for their part, we can hope to address the environmental challenges facing our planet.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
The environment is very important, and people have different ideas about who should protect it. Some think individuals should do it, while others say it’s the government’s job. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
Individuals can do many things to help the environment. They can recycle, use less electricity, and walk or bike instead of driving. When many people do these things, it can make a big difference. Also, people can choose to buy products that are good for the environment, which can make companies change their ways.
Governments also have ways to protect the environment. They can make laws that stop pollution and punish companies that harm nature. Governments can also spend money on clean energy like solar and wind power. They can teach people about the environment in schools too.
I think both individuals and governments need to work together to protect the environment. People should do their part by making good choices every day. But governments need to make it easier for people to be environmentally friendly by providing things like recycling programs and public transportation.
For example, the importance of pet adoption over purchasing is an issue where both individual choices and government policies can play a role in promoting more sustainable and ethical practices.
In conclusion, protecting the environment is everyone’s job. Individuals and governments both have important roles, and they need to work together to make real changes.
Environmental protection: Individual and government roles
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the response
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Demonstrates high levels of coherence and cohesion throughout
- Ideas are logically organized with clear progression
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, though conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some evidence of style and flexibility
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Environmental stewardship (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ – The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices.
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Cumulative impact (noun phrase) – /ˈkjuːmjələtɪv ˈɪmpækt/ – The combined effect of multiple actions or events over time.
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Grassroots movement (noun phrase) – /ˈɡrɑːsruːts ˈmuːvmənt/ – A movement that starts at the local level and is driven by community members.
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Systemic change (noun phrase) – /sɪˈstemɪk tʃeɪndʒ/ – Fundamental changes to an entire system, rather than just individual parts.
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Carbon footprint (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc.
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Sustainable living (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈlɪvɪŋ/ – A lifestyle that attempts to reduce an individual’s or society’s use of the Earth’s natural resources.
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Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment.
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Renewable energy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
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Climate change (noun phrase) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns.
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Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
Conclusion
The topic of government versus individual responsibility for the environment is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore specific aspects of this debate, such as:
- The role of businesses in environmental protection alongside governments and individuals
- The effectiveness of international cooperation versus national policies in addressing global environmental issues
- The balance between economic development and environmental conservation
To prepare for such topics, practice writing essays that discuss multiple perspectives and provide well-reasoned arguments supported by specific examples. Remember to always address all parts of the question and clearly state your own opinion.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and get feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
