Globalization and its environmental impacts have become increasingly frequent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in roughly 15% of recent examination papers. Based on analysis of past papers and current global trends, this theme is likely to remain prominent in future tests, particularly in questions about environmental protection, economic development, and sustainability.
The complex relationship between globalization economic growth and environmental impacts
Let’s examine this crucial topic through a recent IELTS Task 2 question:
Some people believe that globalization has negative effects on local ecosystems and accelerates climate change. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own experience.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on globalization’s environmental impact
- Support arguments with specific examples
- Consider both local ecosystems and global climate change
- Draw from personal knowledge and experience
- Present a well-structured response with clear reasoning
Similar to how to balance economic growth and environmental protection, this topic requires careful consideration of competing priorities.
Band 8.0 Sample Essay
The increasing interconnectedness of our world through globalization has indeed had profound implications for both local environments and global climate patterns. While some argue that international trade and development bring economic benefits, I strongly agree that globalization has significantly contributed to environmental degradation and climate change acceleration.
Firstly, globalization has dramatically increased international trade and transportation, leading to substantial environmental consequences. The massive cargo ships and aircraft that facilitate global commerce emit enormous quantities of greenhouse gases, while the expansion of transportation infrastructure often results in deforestation and habitat destruction. For instance, the development of shipping routes through the Arctic has not only increased carbon emissions but also disrupted delicate polar ecosystems.
Moreover, Using local resources for environmental protection has become increasingly challenging as globalization encourages exploitation of natural resources on an unprecedented scale. Multinational corporations often prioritize profit over environmental concerns, leading to widespread deforestation, mining, and industrial pollution in developing nations. The Amazon rainforest’s ongoing destruction for agricultural expansion and resource extraction clearly exemplifies this problem.
Furthermore, globalization has promoted unsustainable consumption patterns worldwide. The standardization of consumer culture has led to increased demand for products that require extensive resource extraction and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. This has resulted in greater carbon emissions and waste production, contributing significantly to climate change and environmental degradation.
However, globalization also offers potential solutions through international cooperation and technology transfer. By sharing sustainable practices and green technologies across borders, nations can work together to address environmental challenges. Nevertheless, without substantial reforms to current global economic systems, the negative environmental impacts of globalization will likely continue to outweigh these benefits.
International cooperation and sustainable development initiatives in response to environmental challenges
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I agree that globalization has negative effects on the environment and climate change because it causes many problems for our planet. In this essay, I will explain my reasons.
First, globalization means more factories and transportation. When companies make products in different countries, they need many ships and planes to move things around the world. These vehicles make pollution and release CO2 into the air. For example, in my country, there are more factories now than before, and the air quality is worse.
Second, importance of local food movements for sustainability shows us that global trade can hurt local environments. When big companies want to make more food for export, they cut down forests and use chemicals that damage the soil and water. This happens in many developing countries.
Also, globalization makes people want to buy more things. When people see products from other countries, they want to buy them. This means factories must make more products, which uses more resources and energy. This leads to more pollution and waste.
However, globalization can also help solve environmental problems. Countries can share good ideas about protecting nature. But I think the bad effects are bigger than the good ones right now.
Vocabulary Analysis
- Implications (n) /ˌɪm.plɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ – the possible effects or results of an action
- Degradation (n) /ˌdeɡ.rəˈdeɪ.ʃən/ – the process of becoming worse or damaged
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ – basic systems and facilities
- Unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never having happened before
- Exploitation (n) /ˌek.splɔɪˈteɪ.ʃən/ – the action of using something unfairly
- Standardization (n) /ˌstæn.də.daɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ – the process of making things uniform
- Resource extraction (n) /rɪˈsɔːs ɪkˈstræk.ʃən/ – the removal of natural resources
- Technology transfer (n) /tekˈnɒl.ə.dʒi ˈtræns.fɜːr/ – sharing of technical knowledge
Conclusion
Understanding globalization’s environmental impact is crucial for IELTS success. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of international agreements in environmental protection
- Balancing economic development with conservation
- Solutions for sustainable global trade
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement. Remember to focus on clear structure, relevant examples, and appropriate vocabulary use.
