The topic of ethical consumerism in the fashion industry has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent test reports and analysis of past papers, questions related to sustainable fashion and ethical consumption have appeared multiple times, particularly in countries with significant textile manufacturing sectors like India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
Let’s examine one common question type that frequently appears in the IELTS examination:
Some people believe that consumers should avoid buying products from companies that exploit workers and damage the environment, particularly in the fashion industry. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on consumer responsibility
- Discuss the relationship between consumer choices and corporate behavior
- Consider the impact on workers and the environment
- Focus specifically on the fashion industry context
- Provide relevant examples and solutions
The effects of excessive consumerism on the environment have become increasingly evident in recent years, making this topic particularly relevant for IELTS candidates.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In recent years, there has been growing awareness about the negative impacts of fast fashion on both workers and the environment. While some argue that consumers should boycott unethical companies, I strongly agree with this viewpoint as it can drive positive change in the fashion industry.
Consumer choices have significant power to influence corporate behavior. When people deliberately avoid purchasing from companies known for worker exploitation, it creates financial pressure on these businesses to improve their practices. For example, after numerous consumers boycotted several fast fashion brands due to poor working conditions in their factories, these companies were forced to implement better labor standards and increase worker wages. This demonstrates how collective consumer action can lead to meaningful improvements in worker welfare.
Furthermore, environmental consciousness in consumer behavior can drive industry-wide sustainability initiatives. When customers prioritize environmentally responsible brands, it encourages companies to adopt greener practices. Many fashion retailers have begun using organic materials and reducing water consumption in response to growing consumer demand for sustainable fashion industry products. This shift shows how consumer choices can catalyze positive environmental change.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that avoiding unethical companies requires consumer education and accessibility to alternatives. Many people may lack information about company practices or access to ethical fashion options due to higher costs. Therefore, this approach should be combined with broader initiatives such as transparent supply chain reporting and government regulations to create comprehensive change.
In conclusion, I strongly support the view that consumers should avoid supporting companies with poor ethical and environmental records. While this approach has some practical challenges, it remains a powerful tool for promoting corporate responsibility and sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
Sustainable Fashion Manufacturing Practices and Worker Welfare
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people think we should not buy clothes from companies that treat workers badly and harm the environment. I agree with this idea because it can help make the fashion industry better.
First, when we stop buying from bad companies, they lose money. This makes them change their behavior. For example, some big clothing companies started paying workers more money after people stopped buying their products. Also, they made factories safer for workers. This shows that customers have power to change things.
How to reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion is an important issue. When we buy from companies that care about the environment, we help protect nature. Many fashion companies now use better materials and waste less water because customers want this. This is good for our planet.
However, there are some problems. Ethical fashion is often more expensive, and many people cannot afford it. Also, it is hard to know which companies are really good or bad. Sometimes companies say they are good but they are not telling the truth.
In conclusion, I think we should try to buy from good companies when we can. This will help make the fashion industry better for workers and the environment. But we also need help from governments to make sure companies follow good practices.
Key Vocabulary
- ethical consumerism (n) /ˈeθɪkəl kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/ – responsible buying behavior
- exploitation (n) /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃən/ – unfair treatment for benefit
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – environmentally responsible
- boycott (v) /ˈbɔɪkɒt/ – refuse to buy or use
- transparency (n) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – openness and clarity in business
- supply chain (n) /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/ – production and distribution system
- initiative (n) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – new plan or process
- catalyst (n) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – something that causes change
For additional context on this topic, you may find The importance of sustainable consumption helpful in understanding broader consumer responsibility issues.
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of government regulation in promoting ethical fashion
- The impact of social media on sustainable fashion choices
- Balancing affordability with ethical consumption
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
