Tourism and its impact on the environment have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic has appeared multiple times in past exams and is likely to continue being a relevant subject for future tests. The relationship between tourism and environmental degradation is a complex issue that allows candidates to showcase their analytical skills and knowledge of global trends.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question related to this topic:
Some people believe that tourism contributes to environmental degradation. Others argue that tourism can actually help protect the environment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to explore both positive and negative aspects of tourism’s impact on the environment, as well as provide their personal perspective on the issue.
Analysis of the Question
The question can be broken down into three main parts:
- Discuss the view that tourism contributes to environmental degradation
- Discuss the view that tourism can help protect the environment
- Provide your own opinion on the issue
Candidates should ensure they address all three aspects in their response, providing a balanced discussion of both viewpoints before concluding with their own stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Tourism is a major global industry that has significant impacts on the environment. While some argue that it leads to environmental degradation, others believe it can be a tool for environmental protection. This essay will examine both perspectives before providing my own opinion on the matter.
On one hand, tourism can undoubtedly contribute to environmental degradation. The influx of visitors to natural areas often leads to increased pollution, habitat destruction, and strain on local resources. For example, popular beach destinations frequently suffer from water pollution due to inadequate waste management systems struggling to cope with the surge in tourists. Moreover, the construction of hotels and resorts can result in deforestation and loss of biodiversity, as seen in many tropical locations where mangrove forests have been cleared to make way for tourist accommodations.
Deforestation and its global environmental impact is a prime example of how unchecked tourism development can harm ecosystems. However, it’s important to note that tourism is not inherently destructive and can, in fact, be harnessed as a force for environmental good.
On the other hand, proponents argue that tourism can be a powerful tool for environmental protection. When managed responsibly, tourism can generate funds and awareness for conservation efforts. National parks and wildlife reserves often rely on tourism revenue to finance their operations and protection measures. Furthermore, eco-tourism initiatives have gained popularity, promoting sustainable practices and educating visitors about the importance of preserving natural habitats. Costa Rica, for instance, has successfully leveraged its biodiversity to create a thriving eco-tourism industry that supports conservation efforts across the country.
Sustainable tourism practices are crucial for mitigating the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing its potential benefits for the environment and local communities.
In my opinion, while tourism can indeed contribute to environmental degradation if left unchecked, it also has the potential to be a positive force for environmental protection. The key lies in implementing and enforcing sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental conservation. Governments and tourism operators must work together to develop policies that limit the negative impacts of tourism, such as setting carrying capacities for popular destinations and promoting eco-friendly transportation options. Additionally, educating tourists about their environmental responsibilities can foster a culture of sustainable travel.
In conclusion, tourism’s impact on the environment is not inherently positive or negative but depends on how it is managed. By embracing sustainable practices and promoting environmental awareness, we can harness the economic benefits of tourism while minimizing its ecological footprint. The future of tourism must be one that balances human enjoyment of natural wonders with the imperative of preserving them for generations to come.
(Word count: 406)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Tourism is a big industry that affects the environment in different ways. Some people think it causes environmental problems, while others believe it can help protect nature. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
First, tourism can harm the environment. When many tourists visit natural places, it can cause pollution and damage to the environment. For example, popular beaches often have too much trash because there are not enough facilities to handle all the waste from tourists. Also, building hotels and resorts can destroy forests and harm animals. This has happened in many tropical countries where trees are cut down to build places for tourists to stay.
However, tourism can also help protect the environment. When done in a responsible way, tourism can provide money for conservation projects. Many national parks and wildlife reserves need money from tourists to protect animals and plants. Eco-tourism is becoming popular, teaching people about nature and how to protect it. For instance, in Costa Rica, many tourists come to see the rainforests, and this helps the country protect these important areas.
Eco-friendly tourism for environmental protection is gaining popularity as more travelers become aware of their environmental impact.
I think tourism can be both good and bad for the environment, depending on how it is managed. It is important to have rules and policies that help reduce the negative effects of tourism on nature. Governments and tour companies should work together to make sure tourism does not harm the environment. They can do this by limiting the number of tourists in some areas and promoting eco-friendly ways of traveling. It’s also important to teach tourists about how to be responsible when they visit natural places.
In conclusion, tourism can harm the environment, but it can also help protect it if done correctly. We need to find a balance between allowing people to enjoy nature and making sure we preserve it for the future. By using sustainable tourism practices, we can have the benefits of tourism without causing too much damage to the environment.
(Word count: 370)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Tourism is very popular today and it affects the environment. Some people think it’s bad for nature, but others say it can help protect it. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, tourism can hurt the environment. When lots of people visit natural places, they can make them dirty and damage them. For example, beaches get full of trash because there are too many tourists. Also, when they build hotels, they cut down trees and animals lose their homes. This is bad for nature.
But tourism can also be good for the environment. It can give money to help protect nature. Parks and animal places need money from tourists to take care of animals and plants. Some tourism teaches people about nature and how to be good to it. In some countries, like Costa Rica, people come to see the forests, and this helps keep the forests safe.
How tourism contributes to global economic development is an important aspect to consider when evaluating its overall impact.
I think tourism can be good or bad for nature. It depends on how people manage it. We need rules to make sure tourism doesn’t hurt the environment. The government and travel companies should work together to protect nature. They can limit how many people visit some places and teach tourists to be careful with nature.
To finish, tourism can hurt or help the environment. We need to find a good way to let people enjoy nature without hurting it. If we do tourism in a good way, we can have fun and also keep nature safe for the future.
(Word count: 291)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a high level of language proficiency and critical thinking:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Organizes information coherently and uses cohesion very effectively
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a good attempt at addressing the task with some limitations:
- Addresses all parts of the task, although some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and uses cohesion with some effectiveness
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a modest attempt at addressing the task:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but development is not always clear
- Uses limited range of vocabulary; attempts to use less common words but with some inaccuracy
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempts at complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but may lack overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Environmental degradation (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources and destruction of ecosystems.
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Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources or causing ecological damage.
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Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Eco-tourism (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – Tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife.
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Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The protection, preservation, management, or restoration of natural environments and the ecological communities that inhabit them.
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Carrying capacity (noun) – /ˈkæriɪŋ kəˈpæsəti/ – The maximum number of people, animals, or crops that a region can support without environmental degradation.
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Ecological footprint (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The impact of a person or community on the environment, expressed as the amount of land required to sustain their use of natural resources.
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Responsible tourism (noun) – /rɪˈspɒnsəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – Tourism that minimizes negative social, economic, and environmental impacts while generating greater economic benefits for local people and enhancing the well-being of host communities.
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Habitat destruction (noun) – /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪˈstrʌkʃn/ – The process by which natural habitat is damaged or destroyed to such an extent that it is no longer capable of supporting the species and ecological communities that naturally occur there.
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Sustainable development (noun) – /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources.
Conclusion
The relationship between tourism and environmental degradation is a complex and nuanced topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. As global awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, candidates may encounter variations of this question in future exams. Some potential related topics could include:
- The role of government regulations in promoting sustainable tourism
- The impact of mass tourism on local cultures and environments
- Balancing economic benefits of tourism with environmental conservation
- The effectiveness of eco-tourism in protecting endangered species and habitats
To prepare for such essays, it’s crucial to stay informed about current environmental issues and global tourism trends. Practice writing balanced arguments that consider multiple perspectives and support your points with relevant examples. Remember to always address all parts of the question and provide a clear, well-supported opinion.
The role of tourism in boosting local economies is another important aspect to consider when discussing the overall impact of tourism.
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!