Climate change and international cooperation have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2019-2023, this theme appears in approximately 15% of tests, particularly in questions about environment, global challenges, and governmental policies. Understanding how to effectively write about international cooperation and climate change is therefore crucial for IELTS success.
Climate change: causes and solutions provides essential background knowledge for tackling these types of questions. Let’s examine a recent exam question and analyze sample responses across different band scores.
International leaders discussing climate change solutions at conference
Question Analysis
Some people believe that international cooperation is the only way to address climate change effectively. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires you to:
- Express your position on whether international cooperation is the “only” solution
- Support your argument with relevant examples
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Provide a balanced discussion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
While how does globalization impact ecosystems and climate change demonstrates the global nature of environmental challenges, international cooperation, though crucial, should be complemented by local and national initiatives to effectively combat climate change.
Climate change is undeniably a global challenge that transcends national boundaries, making international cooperation essential. When nations work together, they can implement comprehensive strategies that address both causes and effects of climate change. For instance, the Paris Agreement established a framework for countries to collectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support developing nations in their transition to clean energy. Furthermore, international scientific collaboration enables the sharing of research, technology, and best practices that individual countries might not develop independently.
However, relying solely on international cooperation has significant limitations. Local and national actions play equally vital roles in addressing climate change. Cities can implement effective public transportation systems and green building codes, while national governments can enforce stricter environmental regulations and invest in renewable energy infrastructure. For example, Denmark’s successful transition to wind power demonstrates how national initiatives can achieve significant progress independently of international agreements.
Moreover, Global tax on carbon emissions for climate change? highlights how combining international and local approaches yields optimal results. While global frameworks provide direction and accountability, implementation must occur at multiple levels to be truly effective. This multi-tiered approach ensures both global coordination and local adaptation to specific circumstances.
In conclusion, while international cooperation is crucial for addressing climate change, it should be viewed as one component of a comprehensive solution that includes robust local and national actions. The most effective approach combines global collaboration with targeted initiatives at all levels of governance.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
how climate change influences global migration patterns shows us that climate change affects everyone, so I partly agree that international cooperation is important but not the only solution.
First, international cooperation helps countries work together. Many countries can share their knowledge and resources to fight climate change. For example, rich countries can help poor countries get clean energy technology. Also, when countries make agreements like the Paris Agreement, they promise to reduce pollution together.
However, individual countries must also take action themselves. Each country has different problems and needs different solutions. Some countries need to stop cutting down forests, while others need to use less coal. For example, China needs to focus on reducing air pollution in cities, but Brazil needs to protect the Amazon rainforest.
Additionally, people and companies in each country can help fight climate change. They can use less electricity, recycle more, and choose clean transportation. These actions don’t need international cooperation but still help solve the problem.
In conclusion, while international cooperation is important for fighting climate change, it’s not the only solution. We need both global teamwork and local action to solve this problem.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear position with sophisticated argumentation
- Excellent paragraph organization and cohesion
- Advanced vocabulary and complex structures
- Relevant examples and thorough development
- Natural integration of academic vocabulary
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Clear but simpler position
- Basic paragraph organization
- Limited range of vocabulary and structures
- Some relevant examples but less developed
- More basic linking words
Key Vocabulary
- transcend (verb) /trænˈsend/ – to go beyond normal limits
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including everything
- implementation (noun) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – basic physical systems of a country
- accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility to someone or for some activity
For practice, try writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments. Consider how Importance of diplomacy and international cooperation in today’s world might provide additional perspectives for your essay.
