Green technology in construction is becoming an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As environmental concerns grow, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s explore a recent IELTS question on this theme and analyze how to craft high-scoring responses.
Green construction technology
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question related to green technology in construction:
Some people believe that the government should provide incentives for construction companies to use green technologies in building projects. Others think that companies should be responsible for adopting these practices on their own. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should offer incentives for green technology in construction
- Discuss the view that companies should adopt green practices independently
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this topic – one aiming for a Band 8-9 score, and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
The construction industry plays a crucial role in shaping our built environment, and its adoption of green technologies is vital for sustainable development. While some argue that governments should incentivize the use of eco-friendly practices, others believe that construction companies should take the initiative themselves. In my opinion, a combination of both approaches is necessary to effectively promote green technology in the construction sector.
Proponents of government incentives argue that financial support can accelerate the adoption of green technologies. By offering tax breaks, grants, or subsidies, governments can make it more economically viable for construction companies to invest in sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. This approach has proven successful in many countries, where incentives have led to a significant increase in green building projects. Moreover, government backing can help overcome initial hesitations and financial barriers that smaller companies might face when considering eco-friendly alternatives.
On the other hand, those who believe companies should take responsibility for green practices argue that market forces and corporate social responsibility should be the primary drivers. They contend that construction firms should recognize the long-term benefits of sustainable building, such as reduced operational costs and enhanced reputation. Furthermore, as public awareness of environmental issues grows, companies that voluntarily adopt green technologies may gain a competitive edge in the market.
In my view, the most effective approach would be a synergy between government support and corporate initiative. While incentives can provide the initial push and make green technologies more accessible, companies should also be encouraged to go beyond minimum requirements and innovate in sustainable practices. Governments could implement a tiered incentive system, rewarding companies that exceed basic green standards with additional benefits. This approach would not only promote the adoption of existing green technologies but also drive innovation in the field.
In conclusion, promoting green technology in construction requires a multi-faceted approach. By combining government incentives with corporate responsibility, we can create a robust framework for sustainable development in the construction industry. This balanced strategy will ensure that both economic and environmental considerations are addressed, paving the way for a greener built environment.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The use of green technologies in construction is becoming more important these days. Some people think the government should give incentives to construction companies to use these technologies, while others believe companies should do this on their own. I think both views have their merits, but government support is more important.
Those who support government incentives say that it can help companies start using green technologies faster. If the government gives money or tax breaks, it can make it cheaper for companies to use eco-friendly materials and methods. This has worked well in some countries, where more green buildings are being built because of these incentives. Also, small companies might need this help to start using green technologies because they can be expensive at first.
On the other hand, some people think companies should use green technologies without government help. They say that companies should see the benefits of being environmentally friendly, like saving money on energy in the long run and having a good reputation. As more people care about the environment, companies that use green technologies might get more customers.
In my opinion, I think government support is more important, but companies should also take some responsibility. The government can make rules and give incentives to make sure all companies start using green technologies. This is important because not all companies will do this on their own, especially if it costs more money at first. However, companies should also try to do more than just follow the rules and look for new ways to be environmentally friendly.
To conclude, while both government incentives and company responsibility are important, I believe government support is more crucial in promoting green technology in construction. This will ensure that all companies, big and small, start using these technologies, which is better for the environment in the long run.
(Word count: 293)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “crucial role,” “sustainable development,” and “synergy.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.
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Grammar: The higher-scoring essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentences and grammatical structures. The Band 6-7 essay uses mostly simple and compound sentences but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of cohesive devices and idea development.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more in-depth analysis and a more nuanced opinion.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources
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Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
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Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – something that encourages a person to do something
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Corporate social responsibility (noun) /ˈkɔːpərət ˈsəʊʃl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – a company’s sense of responsibility towards the community and environment
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.
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Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
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Tiered (adjective) /tɪəd/ – arranged in tiers or levels
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Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪəbl/ – capable of working successfully; feasible
Remember to use these words accurately and in context to enhance your essay’s lexical resource score.
Conclusion
The topic of promoting green technology in construction is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individuals in promoting sustainable construction practices
- The impact of green building technologies on urban development
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in the construction industry
We encourage you to write your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for practice and feedback. This active approach to learning will help you improve your IELTS Writing skills effectively.
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