Plastic pollution has become a pressing global issue, and it’s no surprise that this topic frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve observed its increasing prevalence in recent exams and predict it will continue to be a popular subject. Let’s explore some real IELTS questions related to plastic pollution and provide a comprehensive sample essay to help you prepare for this crucial topic.
Analyzing the Task
One of the most common question types on this subject is:
Many people believe that plastic bags and other plastic packaging materials should be banned to solve the problem of plastic pollution. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This question requires you to express your opinion on a proposed solution to plastic pollution. It’s an agree/disagree essay type, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, and many advocate for banning plastic bags and packaging materials as a solution. While I agree that reducing plastic usage is crucial, I believe that a complete ban is not the most effective approach to tackle this complex problem.
Undoubtedly, plastic bags and packaging contribute significantly to environmental degradation. These materials often end up in landfills or oceans, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. A ban on plastic bags and packaging could lead to an immediate reduction in plastic waste, potentially alleviating some of the environmental burdens. Moreover, it might encourage consumers and businesses to adopt more sustainable alternatives, fostering innovation in eco-friendly packaging solutions.
However, a complete ban on plastic packaging materials presents several challenges and potential drawbacks. Firstly, plastic packaging plays a vital role in food preservation and hygiene, especially in developing countries where alternative technologies may not be readily available or affordable. A sudden ban could lead to increased food waste and hygiene issues, potentially creating new environmental and health problems. Additionally, many industries rely heavily on plastic packaging for product protection during transportation and storage. An abrupt ban could disrupt supply chains and economic activities, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability.
Instead of an outright ban, I believe a more balanced and comprehensive approach is necessary. This could include implementing stricter regulations on plastic production and usage, investing in research and development of biodegradable alternatives, and improving waste management and recycling infrastructure. Governments should also focus on education and awareness campaigns to encourage responsible consumption and disposal habits. Furthermore, incentivizing businesses to adopt sustainable packaging solutions and imposing taxes on single-use plastics could drive gradual but sustainable change.
In conclusion, while the intention behind banning plastic bags and packaging materials is commendable, I believe that a more nuanced and multi-faceted approach is required to effectively address the issue of plastic pollution. By combining regulation, innovation, education, and economic incentives, we can work towards a more sustainable future without causing undue disruption to essential industries and services.
(Word count: 329)
Band 6-7 Essay
Plastic pollution is a big problem in our world today, and some people think we should ban plastic bags and packaging to solve it. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think there are other things we need to do.
On one hand, banning plastic bags and packaging could help reduce plastic pollution. Many plastic items are used only once and then thrown away, causing harm to the environment. If we stop using these things, there will be less plastic waste in our oceans and on land. This could help protect animals and keep our planet cleaner. Also, if plastic bags are banned, people might start using reusable bags, which is better for the environment.
However, I don’t think banning all plastic packaging is the best solution. Some plastic packaging is important for keeping food fresh and safe to eat. If we ban all plastic packaging, it might be hard to store and transport some foods. This could lead to more food waste, which is also bad for the environment. Also, some industries depend on plastic packaging, and banning it completely could cause problems for businesses and workers.
I think a better way to solve the plastic pollution problem is to use a mix of different solutions. We could:
- Make stricter rules about how plastic is made and used
- Encourage people to recycle more and use less plastic
- Invent new materials that are better for the environment
- Teach people about the problems of plastic pollution
By doing these things, we can reduce plastic pollution without causing too many problems for people and businesses.
In conclusion, while banning some plastic items like single-use bags could help, I believe we need a more balanced approach to tackle plastic pollution effectively. We should combine different strategies to create a solution that works for everyone and helps protect our environment.
(Word count: 309)
Solutions to plastic pollution
Writing Tips for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9:
- Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Provide in-depth analysis and well-developed arguments
- Include specific examples and data to support your points
- Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the issue
- Use appropriate linking words to ensure cohesion and coherence
Band 6-7:
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Provide clear arguments with some supporting examples
- Show a good understanding of the topic
- Use some less common vocabulary correctly
- Ensure your essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
Key Vocabulary for Plastic Pollution Essays
Environmental degradation (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/: The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources.
Biodegradable (adjective) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/: Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Waste management (noun) /weɪst ˈmænɪdʒmənt/: The collection, transportation, and disposal of garbage, sewage, and other waste products.
Single-use plastics (noun) /ˈsɪŋɡl juːs ˈplæstɪks/: Plastic items intended to be used only once before being thrown away or recycled.
Landfill (noun) /ˈlændfɪl/: A site for the disposal of waste materials by burial.
Microplastics (noun) /ˌmaɪkrəʊˈplæstɪks/: Extremely small pieces of plastic debris in the environment resulting from the disposal and breakdown of consumer products.
Conclusion
The topic of plastic pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 for the foreseeable future. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of governments in reducing plastic waste
- The impact of plastic pollution on marine life
- Alternatives to plastic packaging in the food industry
- Individual responsibility in reducing plastic consumption
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use relevant vocabulary, and support your arguments with specific examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on the question provided in this article and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.