Green technology and sustainability have become increasingly important topics in recent years, particularly in the business world. As a result, these themes are appearing more frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on past exam trends and current global concerns, we can expect to see more questions related to promoting green technology in businesses in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a sample question on this topic and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Sample Question and Analysis
Some people believe that businesses should be required to use green technology, while others think they should have the freedom to choose. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question touches on the debate between mandatory implementation of green technology in businesses versus allowing companies to make their own decisions. It’s a classic IELTS discussion essay that requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for mandatory use of green technology
- Discuss arguments for businesses having the freedom to choose
- Present your own opinion on the matter
Let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question – one aiming for a Band 7-8 score, and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Band 7-8 Sample Essay
In an era of growing environmental concerns, the implementation of green technology in businesses has become a contentious issue. While some advocate for mandatory adoption, others argue for corporate autonomy in this matter. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of obligatory green technology use in businesses argue that such a measure is necessary to combat climate change effectively. They contend that left to their own devices, many companies might prioritize short-term profits over long-term environmental sustainability. Mandatory implementation would ensure a level playing field, preventing environmentally conscious firms from being at a competitive disadvantage. Moreover, widespread adoption could accelerate technological advancements in this field, potentially leading to more efficient and cost-effective solutions.
On the other hand, those favoring business freedom in this matter argue that companies should have the right to make their own operational decisions. They believe that market forces and consumer preferences will naturally drive businesses towards greener practices. Forcing companies to adopt potentially expensive technologies could harm their competitiveness, especially for smaller enterprises with limited resources. Additionally, a one-size-fits-all approach might not be suitable for all industries, potentially leading to inefficient resource allocation.
In my opinion, while the intention behind mandatory green technology adoption is commendable, a more nuanced approach would be more effective. I believe governments should create incentives for green technology adoption through tax breaks, grants, and other financial mechanisms. This strategy would encourage businesses to voluntarily embrace sustainable practices without imposing undue hardships. Coupled with public awareness campaigns to influence consumer choices, this approach could foster a more organic and sustainable shift towards green technology in the business world.
In conclusion, while both mandatory and voluntary approaches to green technology adoption have their merits, I believe a balanced strategy of government incentives and public education would be most effective in promoting sustainable business practices without stifling economic growth or innovation.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
The use of green technology in businesses is a topic of debate. Some people think it should be required, while others believe businesses should be free to choose. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
There are good reasons why green technology should be mandatory for businesses. Firstly, it would help reduce pollution and fight climate change. If all companies used environmentally friendly methods, it could make a big difference to our planet. Secondly, it would create a fair situation where all businesses have to follow the same rules. This means companies that care about the environment won’t be at a disadvantage.
However, there are also arguments for letting businesses decide for themselves. One reason is that green technology can be expensive, and some small businesses might not be able to afford it. Forcing them to use it could make them lose money or even close down. Another point is that different industries have different needs, so a single rule might not work for everyone.
In my opinion, I think there should be a mix of both approaches. Governments should encourage businesses to use green technology by offering benefits like tax reductions. They should also educate people about why it’s important, so customers will prefer companies that are environmentally friendly. This way, businesses will want to use green technology without being forced.
To conclude, while both sides of the argument have valid points, I believe a balanced approach of encouragement and education is the best way to promote green technology in businesses.
(Word count: 253)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure – introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, personal opinion, and conclusion. The Band 7-8 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced opinion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 7-8 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases like “contentious issue,” “level playing field,” and “nuanced approach.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still incorporates some good phrases like “environmentally friendly methods.”
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Grammar: The Band 7-8 essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but still maintains good grammatical accuracy.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 7-8 essay provides more detailed arguments and a more sophisticated opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 7-8 essay has better paragraph linking and idea development, while the Band 6-7 essay is still clear but less sophisticated in its organization.
Useful Vocabulary for This Topic
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
- Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – something that motivates or encourages someone to do something
- Mandatory (adjective) /ˈmændətɔːri/ – required by law or rules
- Autonomous (adjective) /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ – having the freedom to govern itself or control its own affairs
- Implementation (noun) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan or decision into effect
- Environmentally conscious (adjective phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentəli ˈkɒnʃəs/ – aware of and concerned about the environment
- Competitiveness (noun) /kəmˈpetɪtɪvnəs/ – the quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
- Resource allocation (noun phrase) /rɪˈsɔːs ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – the process of assigning and managing assets in a manner that supports an organization’s strategic goals
Conclusion
The topic of promoting green technology in businesses is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in promoting sustainable business practices
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
- The impact of consumer choices on business sustainability
- Challenges and opportunities in transitioning to green technologies
Remember to support your arguments with specific examples and maintain a balanced perspective. By mastering this topic, you’ll be well-prepared for a range of questions related to business, technology, and the environment in your IELTS Writing exam.
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