Climate change and its effects on biodiversity have become increasingly prominent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions addressing this crucial environmental issue in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Some people say that the best way to protect the environment is to increase the cost of fuel for cars and other vehicles. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question touches on the intersection of environmental protection, economic measures, and transportation – all key aspects of managing climate change impact on biodiversity. Let’s break it down:

1. Topic: Environmental protection through increased fuel costs
2. Task: Express your opinion on the effectiveness of this approach
3. Key points to consider:
   • The link between fuel consumption and environmental damage
   • The potential impact of higher fuel prices on vehicle usage
   • Alternative methods of environmental protection
   • Possible consequences of increased fuel costs

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Climate change poses a significant threat to global biodiversity, and reducing vehicle emissions is crucial in mitigating this impact. While increasing fuel costs could be an effective measure, I partially agree with this approach as it has both merits and limitations.

Raising fuel prices can indeed lead to reduced vehicle usage and, consequently, lower carbon emissions. When faced with higher costs, many individuals may opt for more fuel-efficient vehicles, public transportation, or alternative modes of travel such as cycling or walking. This shift in behavior could significantly decrease the overall carbon footprint of transportation, thus indirectly protecting biodiversity by slowing climate change. Moreover, increased fuel costs could generate additional revenue for governments, which could be reinvested in environmental conservation projects or research into sustainable technologies.

However, relying solely on fuel price hikes may not be the most comprehensive or equitable solution. Such a measure could disproportionately affect lower-income groups, potentially leading to social and economic disparities. Additionally, in areas with limited public transportation infrastructure, higher fuel costs might hinder mobility and economic activities without providing viable alternatives.

A more balanced approach would involve combining increased fuel costs with other strategies. For instance, governments could invest in improving public transportation systems, creating bike lanes, and incentivizing the use of electric or hybrid vehicles. Implementing stricter emissions standards for vehicles and industries, along with promoting renewable energy sources, would also contribute significantly to environmental protection.

Furthermore, education and awareness campaigns about the impact of carbon emissions on biodiversity are crucial. By fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues, people may be more inclined to make eco-friendly choices voluntarily, rather than solely due to financial pressure.

In conclusion, while increasing fuel costs can play a role in protecting the environment and biodiversity, it should be part of a broader, multi-faceted strategy. Combining economic measures with infrastructure development, technological innovation, and public education would create a more effective and sustainable approach to environmental conservation.

(308 words)

Climate change impact on biodiversity

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The idea of increasing fuel costs to protect the environment is a topic of much debate. While I agree that it could help reduce pollution, I believe there are both advantages and disadvantages to this approach.

On the positive side, higher fuel prices would likely make people think twice before using their cars for every trip. This could lead to less traffic on the roads and fewer emissions, which would be good for the environment. Also, it might encourage more people to use public transport or switch to electric cars, which are better for the environment.

However, there are some problems with this idea. Firstly, it could be unfair to people with lower incomes who rely on their cars for work or other essential activities. They might struggle to pay the higher costs and could face financial difficulties. Additionally, in some areas where public transport is not well-developed, people might not have any other option but to use their cars, regardless of the cost.

I think there are other ways to protect the environment that could be more effective. For example, governments could invest in better public transportation systems or create more bike lanes to encourage people to use alternative modes of transport. They could also offer incentives for people to buy electric or hybrid cars. Another important step would be to educate people about environmental issues and how their actions can make a difference.

In conclusion, while increasing fuel costs might help reduce pollution to some extent, I believe it’s not the best solution on its own. A combination of different approaches, including improving public transport, offering green alternatives, and raising awareness, would be more effective in protecting the environment and managing the impact of climate change on biodiversity.

(275 words)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing pros and cons, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has a more sophisticated structure with more detailed arguments.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases like “mitigating this impact,” “disproportionately affect,” and “multi-faceted strategy.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the ideas.

3. Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay does this more skillfully, creating a smoother flow of ideas.

4. Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments, considering broader implications of the issue.

5. Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures used accurately, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler structures but still maintains good accuracy.

Useful Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.

2. Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: To make something less harmful, serious, or bad.

3. Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.

4. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

5. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources or causing ecological damage.

6. Emissions (noun) /ɪˈmɪʃnz/: The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation.

7. Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The action of preserving, protecting, or restoring the natural environment and wildlife.

8. Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.

In conclusion, managing the impact of climate change on biodiversity is a critical topic that requires a multifaceted approach. While economic measures like increasing fuel costs can play a role, they should be part of a broader strategy that includes infrastructure development, technological innovation, and public education. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, practice writing essays on related topics such as renewable energy adoption, sustainable urban planning, or international cooperation on climate change. Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide balanced arguments supported by examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement!