The topic of making cities more environmentally friendly has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 over the past few years. Given the global focus on sustainability and urban development, it’s likely to remain a popular subject for future exams. Based on past trends and current environmental concerns, we can expect to see questions related to urban planning, green spaces, sustainable transportation, and energy-efficient buildings. Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that cities should be redesigned to reduce their environmental impact. What are some ways that cities can become more environmentally friendly? Do you think these changes are necessary?

Analyzing the Question

This question is a two-part task that requires candidates to:

1. Discuss ways cities can become more environmentally friendly
2. Express their opinion on whether these changes are necessary

The question touches on urban planning, environmental sustainability, and personal views on urban development. It’s crucial to address both parts of the question in your response.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Cities play a pivotal role in our modern world, but their environmental impact is increasingly concerning. There are several effective strategies that urban planners and policymakers can implement to make cities more eco-friendly, and I firmly believe these changes are not only necessary but urgent.

One of the most impactful ways to reduce a city’s environmental footprint is through sustainable transportation. This can be achieved by expanding public transit networks, creating dedicated bicycle lanes, and promoting electric vehicle usage. For instance, Copenhagen has successfully reduced its carbon emissions by prioritizing cycling infrastructure, with over 50% of residents now commuting by bicycle. Additionally, implementing green building standards can significantly decrease energy consumption in urban areas. This includes using energy-efficient materials, installing solar panels, and designing buildings to maximize natural light and ventilation.

Another crucial aspect is increasing urban green spaces. Parks, rooftop gardens, and vertical forests not only absorb carbon dioxide but also improve air quality and provide habitats for urban wildlife. Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is an excellent example of how cities can incorporate large-scale green spaces into their urban landscape. Furthermore, efficient waste management systems, including comprehensive recycling programs and waste-to-energy facilities, can drastically reduce landfill usage and methane emissions.

I strongly believe these changes are absolutely necessary for several reasons. Firstly, cities are major contributors to global carbon emissions, and as urbanization continues to increase, their environmental impact will only grow. Secondly, creating more environmentally friendly cities improves the quality of life for residents by reducing air pollution, lowering noise levels, and providing more green spaces for recreation. Lastly, implementing these changes now will help cities become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels.

In conclusion, there are numerous ways to make cities more environmentally friendly, from sustainable transportation to green building practices. Given the urgent need to address climate change and improve urban living conditions, these changes are not just necessary but critical for the future of our planet and the well-being of urban populations.

How urban planning can create more sustainable cities is a complex challenge that requires innovative solutions and long-term commitment from both governments and citizens. By implementing these strategies, we can create urban environments that are not only more sustainable but also more livable and resilient.

Sustainable urban transportation systems in modern cities

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In recent years, many people have started to think about how cities can be more friendly to the environment. There are several ways this can be done, and I think these changes are important for our future.

One way to make cities greener is by improving public transportation. If more people use buses and trains instead of cars, there will be less pollution. Cities can also encourage people to ride bicycles by building more bike lanes. Another idea is to plant more trees and create parks in cities. This helps clean the air and gives people nice places to relax.

Cities can also focus on using less energy. This can be done by making buildings more energy-efficient with better insulation and using solar panels. Some cities are also trying to reduce waste by recycling more and composting food waste.

I believe these changes are necessary because our cities are currently causing a lot of pollution and using too many resources. If we make these changes, it will help fight climate change and make cities healthier places to live. It’s also important for the future generations who will live in these cities.

However, making these changes can be difficult and expensive. Some people might not want to change their habits, like using cars less. But I think the benefits are worth it in the long run.

In conclusion, there are many ways to make cities more environmentally friendly, such as improving public transport, planting more trees, and using less energy. These changes are necessary to create a better future for everyone living in cities.

The role of the Internet of Things in smart cities can also contribute significantly to making urban areas more sustainable and efficient. By using connected devices and data analysis, cities can optimize resource use and reduce waste.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Cities are important places where many people live, but they can be bad for the environment. There are some ways to make cities better for nature, and I think it’s good to do this.

One way to help is to have more trees and parks in cities. Trees make the air cleaner and parks are nice for people to visit. Also, cities can try to use less electricity by using special lights that don’t use much power.

Another idea is to make it easier for people to walk or ride bikes instead of using cars. This can help reduce pollution from cars. Some cities are also trying to recycle more trash so less goes to waste.

I think these changes are necessary because we need to take care of our planet. If cities are cleaner and have less pollution, it’s better for everyone’s health. It’s also good for animals that live in cities.

But it might be hard to make these changes because it costs money and some people don’t like change. However, I believe it’s important to try because it will make our cities nicer places to live.

In conclusion, there are ways to make cities better for the environment, like having more trees and using less electricity. I think it’s necessary to do these things to have a better future.

Why eco-friendly transportation should be prioritized is an important consideration for cities looking to reduce their environmental impact. By focusing on sustainable modes of transport, cities can significantly decrease their carbon footprint.

Urban green spaces and sustainable architecture in environmentally friendly cities

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 essay
• Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control
• Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
• Ideas are coherent and well-organized with clear progression throughout

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
• Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some errors that do not impede communication
• Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors
• Information and ideas are generally well-organized with clear overall progression

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas
• Expresses a position but it may not be clear throughout the essay
• Uses a limited range of vocabulary, adequate for simple ideas but inadequate for more complex concepts
• Uses mainly simple sentences with limited accuracy in more complex structures
• Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Urban planning (noun) – /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – The process of designing and organizing urban areas
2. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
3. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities
4. Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
5. Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
6. Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
7. Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
8. Green space (noun) – /griːn speɪs/ – An area of grass, trees, or other vegetation set apart for recreational or aesthetic purposes
9. Waste management (noun) – /weɪst ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – The collection, transportation, and disposal of garbage, sewage, and other waste products
10. Energy-efficient (adjective) – /ˈenədʒi ɪˈfɪʃnt/ – Using less energy to provide the same service

In conclusion, the topic of making cities more environmentally friendly is a crucial one in today’s world and is likely to appear in various forms in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Possible variations might include discussing the challenges of implementing green policies in urban areas, comparing the environmental impact of different types of cities, or exploring the role of technology in creating sustainable urban environments.

To practice effectively, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as “The impact of urbanization on the environment” or “The role of government in promoting sustainable cities”. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.

How can the digital economy promote sustainable development? is another interesting angle to consider when thinking about environmentally friendly cities. The integration of digital technologies can lead to more efficient resource management and innovative solutions for urban sustainability.