IELTS Writing Task 2: How Climate Change Impacts Tourism – Sample Essays and Analysis

Climate change and its effects on various sectors have become increasingly prominent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. The subject of “how climate change impacts tourism” is particularly relevant, given the growing awareness of environmental issues and their economic implications. This topic has appeared in several past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for future tests due to its global significance.

Let’s examine a sample question that reflects this theme and could potentially appear in an upcoming IELTS Writing Task 2:

Some people believe that climate change will have a significant negative impact on the tourism industry. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to consider the relationship between climate change and the tourism industry. Key points to address include:

1. The extent of agreement or disagreement with the statement
2. The potential negative impacts of climate change on tourism
3. Possible counterarguments or mitigating factors
4. Examples to support your position

Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, one aimed at a Band 8-9 level and another at a Band 6-7 level.

Sample Essay (Band 8-9)

Climate change is undeniably one of the most pressing issues of our time, and its far-reaching consequences are likely to affect numerous sectors of the global economy. In my opinion, I strongly agree that climate change will have a significant negative impact on the tourism industry, as the environmental changes brought about by global warming will drastically alter many popular tourist destinations and travel patterns.

Firstly, rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events pose a direct threat to coastal and island destinations, which are often major tourist attractions. For instance, the Maldives, a archipelagic nation renowned for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts, is at risk of becoming uninhabitable due to rising sea levels. This would not only devastate the local economy but also eliminate a popular tourist destination. Similarly, increased hurricane activity in the Caribbean has already led to the destruction of infrastructure and natural attractions, deterring tourists and requiring costly rebuilding efforts.

Moreover, climate change is altering the very landscapes and ecosystems that draw tourists to certain regions. Ski resorts are facing shorter seasons and less reliable snowfall, while coral reefs are experiencing widespread bleaching due to rising ocean temperatures. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, for example, has suffered severe bleaching events in recent years, threatening its status as a world-class diving destination. These changes not only diminish the appeal of these locations but also disrupt the livelihoods of communities that depend on tourism.

However, it is worth noting that the tourism industry has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Some destinations are developing alternative attractions or focusing on eco-tourism to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Additionally, increased awareness of environmental issues may lead to more sustainable travel practices and the development of new, climate-resilient tourist destinations.

In conclusion, while the tourism industry may evolve and adapt, the overwhelming evidence suggests that climate change will indeed have a significant negative impact on many aspects of tourism. It is crucial for governments, businesses, and travelers alike to recognize these challenges and work towards sustainable solutions to preserve both the environment and the viability of the tourism sector.

(Word count: 345)

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

I agree that climate change will have a big negative impact on tourism. This is because many tourist places are affected by changes in the weather and environment.

One main reason is that popular beach destinations are at risk from rising sea levels. For example, some small islands might disappear underwater in the future. This would be very bad for tourism in those places. Also, more storms and hurricanes can damage hotels and other buildings that tourists use.

Another problem is that some natural attractions are changing. Ski resorts might not have enough snow because it’s getting warmer. In hot countries, coral reefs are dying because the sea is too warm. These changes make these places less interesting for tourists to visit.

Climate change also affects animals and plants that tourists want to see. For instance, some animals might move to different areas or even die out. This means tourists can’t see them in their usual habitats anymore.

However, some people think that new types of tourism might develop because of climate change. For example, people might be more interested in eco-friendly holidays. Also, some colder places might become more popular for holidays if they get warmer.

In conclusion, I believe climate change will mostly have negative effects on tourism. Many popular tourist places will be damaged or changed. However, the tourism industry might find new ways to attract visitors in the future.

(Word count: 234)

Climate change impacts on tourism

Key Points to Consider When Writing

Vocabulary

When addressing this topic, it’s important to use a range of relevant vocabulary. Here are some key terms to incorporate:

1. Climate change (n): Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
2. Global warming (n): The long-term heating of Earth’s climate system
3. Sea level rise (n): An increase in the level of the world’s oceans due to global warming
4. Extreme weather events (n): Unusual, severe or unseasonal weather
5. Ecosystem (n): A community of living organisms and their physical environment
6. Biodiversity (n): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
7. Sustainable tourism (n): Tourism that respects both local people and the traveler, cultural heritage and the environment
8. Carbon footprint (n): The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities
9. Adaptation (n): The process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment
10. Mitigation (n): The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something

Grammar

To achieve a higher band score, it’s crucial to demonstrate a range of complex grammatical structures. Some examples include:

1. Conditional sentences: “If climate change continues at its current rate, many coastal resorts may become uninhabitable.”
2. Passive voice: “Popular ski destinations are being affected by shorter winter seasons.”
3. Relative clauses: “Tourists who seek pristine natural environments may find their options increasingly limited.”
4. Perfect tenses: “By 2050, rising sea levels will have dramatically altered many coastal landscapes.”
5. Modals for speculation: “The tourism industry might need to adapt by developing new, climate-resilient destinations.”

Conclusion

The topic of climate change’s impact on tourism is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

1. The role of individual travelers in promoting sustainable tourism
2. Government responsibilities in protecting tourist destinations from climate change
3. The potential positive impacts of climate change on certain tourist destinations
4. The balance between economic benefits of tourism and environmental protection

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.