Tourism’s effects on the environment in developing countries is a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing roughly twice per year in recent tests. This high frequency makes it essential for IELTS candidates to master this subject. Let’s examine how climate change is affecting the tourism industry through some sample essays.
Environmental impacts of mass tourism in developing countries
Question Analysis
Some people think that tourism has negative effects on the environment in developing countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This question requires:
- Clear position on tourism’s environmental impact
- Focus on developing nations specifically
- Examples and evidence to support arguments
- Well-structured response with balanced analysis
Band 8 Sample Essay
The impact of tourism on local economies in developing nations is significant, but I strongly agree that it often brings substantial environmental challenges. This essay will examine the various ways tourism affects the natural environment in developing countries.
Tourism frequently leads to environmental degradation through increased pollution and waste generation. In popular destinations like Bali, Indonesia, the influx of tourists results in overwhelming amounts of plastic waste on beaches and in oceans. Additionally, the construction of hotels and resorts often involves clearing natural habitats and disrupting local ecosystems.
Furthermore, the impact of tourism on historical sites extends to natural resources. The tourism industry places immense pressure on water supplies and energy resources in developing nations. For instance, luxury hotels in water-scarce regions like Rajasthan, India, consume disproportionate amounts of water for swimming pools and gardens, while local communities struggle with basic water needs.
However, tourism can also drive environmental conservation efforts. When managed properly, tourism revenue can fund wildlife preservation and habitat protection. Countries like Costa Rica have successfully implemented eco-tourism models that protect rainforests while providing economic benefits. This demonstrates that with proper planning and regulation, tourism’s environmental impact can be mitigated.
In conclusion, while tourism poses significant environmental challenges in developing nations, the solution lies not in preventing tourism but in implementing sustainable practices and strict environmental regulations. Governments must prioritize environmental protection while harnessing Economic benefits and challenges of tourism.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I agree that tourism can damage the environment in developing countries. This essay will discuss some main problems caused by tourism.
First, tourists create lots of pollution. When many tourists visit beaches, they leave behind plastic bottles and other garbage. This makes the environment dirty and hurts animals. Also, more tourist buses and taxis mean more air pollution in cities.
Second, building hotels damages nature. Many hotels are built near beaches or in forest areas. This destroys plants and animals’ homes. Also, hotels use too much water and electricity, which is bad for the environment.
However, tourism can sometimes help protect nature. When tourists pay to visit national parks, this money can help save endangered animals. Some hotels also try to be eco-friendly by using solar power and recycling.
In conclusion, tourism mostly hurts the environment in developing countries, but there are some positive effects too. Governments should make strict rules to protect nature from tourism damage.
Key Vocabulary
- environmental degradation (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – the deterioration of the environment
- ecosystem (n) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – all living things in an area and how they relate to each other
- disproportionate (adj) /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənət/ – too large or too small in comparison to something else
- mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – the action of reducing the severity of something
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over a period of time without damaging the environment
Practice Exercise
Try writing your own essay on this similar topic:
Tourism brings significant economic benefits to developing countries but can also lead to environmental problems. How can countries balance tourism development with environmental protection?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.
