Climate change and its impact on global migration has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent examination trends and how global migration affects cultural diversity, this theme appears in approximately 15% of environment-related questions, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared.
Climate change driving global migration patterns showing displaced communities
Analysis of Common Question Types
Let’s examine a frequently appearing question type:
Some people believe that climate change is the main factor driving global migration patterns today. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Question Breakdown
- Topic: Climate change and migration
- Task: Agree/Disagree
- Focus: Evaluating climate change as primary migration driver
- Key requirements: Clear position, supporting evidence, relevant examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
Climate change has emerged as a significant force reshaping global migration patterns, and while I largely agree that it is a crucial factor, it operates alongside other important drivers of human movement.
The impact of climate change on migration is profound and increasingly evident. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities, particularly in low-lying regions such as Bangladesh and Pacific island nations, forcing inhabitants to relocate. Similarly, how does climate change contribute to global conflicts through resource scarcity, leading to forced displacement in regions like sub-Saharan Africa. These environmental pressures create what experts term “climate refugees,” although this classification lacks formal recognition in international law.
However, it would be an oversimplification to attribute global migration solely to climate change. Economic opportunities continue to be a primary motivation for migration, as evidenced by the substantial flow of skilled workers from developing to developed nations. Additionally, how climate change affects global economic stability demonstrates that political instability and social factors remain significant catalysts for population movement.
Looking ahead, How to tackle the issue of climate-induced migration will become increasingly crucial as environmental degradation accelerates. International cooperation and policy reforms will be essential to address this growing challenge effectively.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I think climate change is becoming one of the biggest reasons why people move to different countries today, and I agree that it is very important.
Firstly, climate change makes some places impossible to live in. When there are too many floods or droughts, people cannot grow food or find clean water. For example, in my country, many farmers have to leave their villages because they cannot grow crops anymore due to unusual weather. Also, when the sea level goes up, people living near the coast have to move to safer places.
However, there are other reasons why people move to different countries. Many people move because they want better jobs or to study in good universities. Some people also move because there are wars or political problems in their countries. how to address the challenges of migration and refugee crises shows this is still a big problem.
I think in the future, more people will move because of climate change, but it will not be the only reason. Governments need to help people who have to leave their homes because of weather problems.
Key Vocabulary
- Environmental degradation (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The deterioration of the environment
- Resource scarcity (n) /rɪˈsɔːs ˈskeəsɪti/ – Shortage of natural resources
- Displacement (n) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – Forced movement of people
- Mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – Reduction in severity
- Anthropogenic (adj) /ˌænθrəpəˈdʒenɪk/ – Caused by human activities
Essay Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear position with nuanced argument
- Well-developed examples
- Coherent paragraphing
- Effective use of linking devices
Band 6.5 Essay Areas for Improvement:
- Simple vocabulary and grammar
- Basic examples
- Limited development of ideas
- Some repetition
- Basic linking words
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of technology in managing climate-induced migration
- International cooperation in addressing climate refugees
- Economic impacts of climate-driven population movements
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.
