Climate change and technological innovation are recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this topic’s frequency is likely to increase given its global significance. Here’s a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS tests:
Some people believe that technological innovation is the best way to tackle climate change, while others think changes in individual behavior are more effective. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
This essay requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting views
- Clear position with supporting arguments
- Examples of both technological solutions and behavioral changes
- Balanced analysis leading to a reasoned conclusion
The role of youth in climate action demonstrates how younger generations are increasingly engaged in this debate, making it particularly relevant for IELTS candidates.
Band 9 Sample Essay
The ongoing debate about whether technological advancement or individual action better addresses climate change merits careful consideration of both approaches’ effectiveness. While both strategies have merit, I believe technological innovation offers the most promising path forward.
Proponents of technological solutions argue that large-scale innovations can create systemic change more effectively than individual actions. For instance, the development of efficient carbon capture technologies and renewable energy systems can reduce emissions at an industrial scale. Similarly, how can renewable energy sources reduce global carbon emissions shows that solar and wind power innovations have already significantly decreased our dependence on fossil fuels.
Technological innovations in renewable energy helping combat climate change
Those advocating for behavioral change contend that individual actions collectively create meaningful impact. They emphasize that personal choices like reducing meat consumption, using public transportation, and minimizing waste directly decrease carbon footprints. Furthermore, these behavioral shifts can influence others and create social momentum for environmental protection.
However, I believe technological innovation provides the most effective solution for several reasons. Firstly, it can achieve rapid, large-scale impact without requiring universal behavior modification. Geoengineering: feasible for climate change? explores how emerging technologies could potentially address climate issues at a global level. Secondly, technological solutions often make environmentally friendly choices more accessible and affordable, thereby naturally encouraging behavioral changes.
In conclusion, while individual actions play a valuable role, technological innovation offers the most promising pathway to combat climate change effectively. The ideal approach would leverage technological advancement to facilitate and encourage positive behavioral changes.
Band 7 Sample Essay
Today, people debate whether technology or personal actions are better for fighting climate change. Although both approaches have advantages, I think technology provides better solutions.
Some people believe that new technology is the answer to climate problems. Modern inventions like electric cars and solar panels help reduce pollution significantly. Additionally, scientists are developing new ways to remove carbon dioxide from the air, which could help slow global warming.
Personal actions and lifestyle changes for environmental protection
Others think individual actions matter more. They say that when many people change their habits, like using less plastic or taking public transport, it makes a big difference. Climate change impacts on food security? shows how personal food choices affect the environment.
In my opinion, technology offers better solutions because it can make bigger changes faster. For example, when companies develop better renewable energy, it helps whole cities reduce pollution quickly. Also, new technology often makes it easier for people to make good environmental choices.
To conclude, while personal actions are important, technological solutions provide more effective ways to fight climate change. The best approach would be to use both methods together.
Vocabulary Analysis
- Innovation (n) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the introduction of new ideas or methods
- Carbon capture (n) /ˈkɑːbən ˈkæptʃə/ – technology for collecting and storing carbon dioxide emissions
- Systemic (adj) /sɪˈstemɪk/ – affecting an entire system
- Carbon footprint (n) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – total amount of greenhouse gases produced by human activities
- Renewable (adj) /rɪˈnjuːəbl/ – naturally replenished resource
- Geoengineering (n) /ˌdʒiːəʊˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – deliberate large-scale intervention in Earth’s climate system
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into effect
Keep practicing with similar topics, such as:
- The role of governments in promoting green technology
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
- International cooperation in technological climate solutions
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
