Sustainability in business practices is a topic that has gained significant traction in recent years, reflecting the growing global concern for environmental and social responsibility. This theme has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, and its relevance is likely to increase in future exams. Based on trends observed in past IELTS exams and the current global focus on sustainable development, we can expect to see more questions related to this topic.
Let’s examine a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question that addresses this theme:
Some people believe that businesses should prioritize profit, while others argue that they have a responsibility to protect the environment and promote sustainability. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents a common IELTS format: discussing two contrasting views and providing a personal opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- The view that businesses should focus primarily on profit
- The opposing view that businesses have a responsibility towards environmental protection and sustainability
- Your own perspective on the issue
It’s crucial to discuss both viewpoints equally before presenting your own opinion, which should be clearly stated and supported with relevant examples or reasoning.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s globalized economy, the role of businesses in society has become a subject of intense debate. While some argue that companies should focus solely on maximizing profits, others contend that they have a broader responsibility to protect the environment and promote sustainability. In my opinion, while profitability is essential for business survival, it should not come at the expense of environmental stewardship.
Those who prioritize profit argue that the primary function of a business is to generate returns for its shareholders. They contend that by focusing on financial growth, companies can create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to overall economic prosperity. For instance, tech giants like Apple and Microsoft have created enormous wealth and technological advancements by pursuing profitable ventures. Moreover, proponents of this view might argue that it is the government’s role, not businesses’, to regulate environmental issues.
On the other hand, advocates for corporate environmental responsibility argue that businesses have a moral obligation to minimize their ecological footprint. They point out that many of the world’s environmental problems, such as deforestation and pollution, are direct results of unchecked industrial activities. Companies like Patagonia have demonstrated that it is possible to maintain profitability while adhering to strict environmental standards, proving that sustainability and business success are not mutually exclusive.
In my view, the most effective approach is to strike a balance between profitability and sustainability. Businesses should recognize that long-term success is intrinsically linked to environmental health. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can reduce operational costs, enhance their brand image, and tap into the growing market of environmentally conscious consumers. Furthermore, as climate change continues to pose significant risks to global stability, businesses that proactively address environmental concerns are better positioned to navigate future challenges and regulations.
In conclusion, while the pursuit of profit is a fundamental aspect of business, it should not overshadow the critical need for environmental protection. The most successful companies of the future will likely be those that can harmonize financial goals with sustainable practices, thereby ensuring both their own longevity and the well-being of the planet.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In the modern world, there is a debate about whether businesses should focus on making money or if they should also care about the environment and sustainability. Both sides have good points, and I will discuss them before giving my own opinion.
People who think businesses should only care about profits say that this is the main job of a company. They believe that by making money, businesses can help the economy grow and create jobs for people. For example, big companies like Amazon have made a lot of money and hired many workers. These people also think that it’s the government’s job to protect the environment, not businesses.
On the other hand, some people argue that businesses have a duty to help protect the environment. They say that many companies cause pollution and other environmental problems, so they should take responsibility for fixing these issues. Some businesses, like eco-friendly clothing brands, have shown that it’s possible to make money while also being good for the environment.
In my opinion, I think businesses should try to do both – make money and help the environment. Being environmentally friendly can actually help companies save money in the long run by using less energy and materials. It can also make customers like the company more, which can lead to more sales. As climate change becomes a bigger problem, businesses that care about the environment will probably do better in the future.
To conclude, while making money is important for businesses, they should also think about how they affect the environment. The best companies will find ways to be successful while also being sustainable and environmentally responsible.
(Word count: 271)
Key Points to Consider When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a high band score.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “globalized economy,” “environmental stewardship,” “ecological footprint”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still conveys the main ideas effectively.
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Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the lower band essay uses simpler constructions but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated transitions between paragraphs and ideas.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced argument.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
- Corporate responsibility (noun phrase) /ˈkɔːrpərət rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – a company’s sense of duty towards the community and environment
- Ecological footprint (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – the impact of human activities on the environment
- Stewardship (noun) /ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ – the responsible management of resources
- Environmentally conscious (adjective phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentəli ˈkɒnʃəs/ – aware of and concerned about environmental issues
- Profitability (noun) /ˌprɒfɪtəˈbɪləti/ – the ability or degree to which a business yields profit or financial gain
- Harmonize (verb) /ˈhɑːmənaɪz/ – to bring into agreement or harmony
- Longevity (noun) /lɒnˈdʒevəti/ – long existence or service
- Environmental regulation (noun phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˌmentl ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃn/ – rules and laws designed to protect the environment
- Sustainable development (noun phrase) /səˌsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – economic development conducted without depletion of natural resources
In conclusion, the topic of promoting sustainability in business practices is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as corporate social responsibility, green technology in business, or the balance between economic growth and environmental protection. Remember to always analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.