Environmental issues have become increasingly prominent in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts over the past few years. The topic of reducing businesses’ environmental impact is particularly relevant and has a high likelihood of appearing in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model answers to help you prepare for this important subject.
Analyzing the Topic
The environmental impact of businesses is a complex and multifaceted issue that touches on various aspects of corporate responsibility and sustainability. IELTS examiners often frame questions around this topic to test candidates’ ability to discuss environmental policies, technological solutions, and the balance between economic growth and ecological preservation.
Sample Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question, which is representative of the type you might encounter in the exam:
Some people believe that businesses should be required by law to reduce their environmental impact, while others think businesses should decide for themselves how to address environmental issues. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that laws should mandate businesses to reduce their environmental impact
- Discuss the opposing view that businesses should have autonomy in addressing environmental issues
- Present and justify your own opinion on the matter
Remember to provide specific examples and maintain a balanced argument throughout your essay.
Model Answer (Band 7-8)
Environmental protection is a critical concern in today’s world, and the role of businesses in this matter is often debated. While some advocate for legal requirements to ensure companies reduce their ecological footprint, others argue for corporate autonomy in addressing these issues. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Those in favor of legally mandating businesses to reduce their environmental impact argue that without such regulations, many companies would prioritize profits over sustainability. They contend that strict laws are necessary to enforce responsible practices, citing examples such as carbon emission limits and waste management regulations. These legal requirements create a level playing field, ensuring that environmentally conscious businesses are not at a competitive disadvantage.
On the other hand, proponents of business autonomy in environmental matters argue that companies are best positioned to develop innovative and efficient solutions tailored to their specific industries. They believe that market forces and consumer preferences will naturally drive businesses towards more sustainable practices. For instance, many companies have voluntarily adopted eco-friendly policies to improve their public image and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
In my opinion, a balanced approach combining both legal requirements and corporate initiative is most effective. While basic environmental standards should be legally enforced to prevent egregious harm, businesses should also be given the flexibility to exceed these standards and develop unique sustainable solutions. This approach encourages innovation while ensuring a minimum level of environmental protection across all sectors.
In conclusion, the environmental impact of businesses is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. By combining regulatory oversight with corporate responsibility and innovation, we can work towards a more sustainable future for both business and the environment.
(Word count: 276)
Model Answer (Band 6-7)
The environmental impact of businesses is a big issue today. Some people think there should be laws to make companies reduce their impact, while others believe businesses should decide for themselves. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support laws for businesses to reduce environmental impact say that many companies only care about making money. They think that without rules, businesses will not care about the environment. For example, laws about pollution and waste management have helped to make companies more responsible. These laws make sure all businesses follow the same rules, which is fair for everyone.
On the other hand, people who think businesses should decide for themselves say that companies know their own industries best. They believe that businesses will become more environmentally friendly on their own because customers want this. Many companies have already started using green practices to look good to customers. For instance, some companies use renewable energy or reduce plastic in their packaging.
In my opinion, we need both laws and business decisions to protect the environment. Some basic rules are important to stop the worst environmental damage. But businesses should also be free to find new ways to be eco-friendly. This way, we can have some protection from laws, but also let companies be creative in solving environmental problems.
To conclude, the environmental impact of businesses is not a simple issue. I believe a mix of laws and business choices is the best way to help the environment while still allowing companies to grow and be successful.
(Word count: 263)
Writing Tips
When addressing this topic, keep the following points in mind:
- Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion with your opinion.
- Balance: Give equal attention to both perspectives before presenting your own view.
- Examples: Use specific examples to support your arguments, such as existing environmental regulations or voluntary corporate initiatives.
- Vocabulary: Incorporate relevant environmental and business terminology to demonstrate your language proficiency.
- Coherence: Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.
Key Vocabulary
Here are some important terms to remember when writing about this topic:
- Environmental impact (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈɪmpækt/ – The effect of human activities on the natural world
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
- Corporate responsibility (noun) /ˈkɔːpərət rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – A company’s commitment to manage its environmental and social impacts
- Ecological footprint (noun) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The impact of a person or community on the environment
- Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Carbon emissions (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
- Waste management (noun) /weɪst ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – The collection, transportation, and disposal of garbage, sewage, and other waste products
- Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
- Regulatory oversight (noun) /ˈreɡjələtəri ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – Supervision by government agencies to ensure compliance with laws and regulations
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products
Conclusion
The topic of reducing businesses’ environmental impact 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 enforcing environmental regulations
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
- The effectiveness of voluntary vs. mandatory environmental initiatives for businesses
- The impact of consumer choices on corporate environmental policies
Remember to stay informed about current environmental issues and business practices to provide up-to-date examples in your essays. By mastering this topic, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar questions in your IELTS exam.