Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Tourism’s Environmental Impact in Developing Nations

Tourism’s impact on the environment in developing countries is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant due to its global significance. Let’s examine a real IELTS question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Some people think that tourism is harmful to the environment in developing countries, while others believe it can actually help protect it. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the negative environmental impacts of tourism in developing countries
2. Explore how tourism can potentially protect the environment
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Tourism’s environmental impact in developing nations is a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While some argue that it causes significant harm, others contend that it can be a catalyst for environmental protection. In my opinion, the reality lies somewhere in between, with tourism having the potential for both positive and negative effects depending on how it is managed.

Those who view tourism as detrimental to the environment in developing countries have several valid concerns. Firstly, the influx of tourists often leads to increased pollution and waste generation, overwhelming local infrastructure that may already be struggling. For example, popular beach destinations in Southeast Asia have seen their once-pristine shores littered with plastic waste from tourists. Additionally, the construction of hotels and resorts can result in habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity, as natural areas are cleared to make way for tourist accommodations. This is particularly problematic in ecologically sensitive areas such as rainforests or coral reefs.

On the other hand, proponents argue that tourism can actually help protect the environment in developing nations. One key argument is that tourism creates economic incentives for conservation. When natural areas become valuable tourist attractions, there is a financial motivation to preserve them. For instance, national parks in countries like Costa Rica have thrived due to ecotourism, providing funds for conservation efforts and alternatives to destructive practices like logging. Furthermore, tourism can raise awareness about environmental issues, both among locals and visitors, fostering a culture of conservation and sustainable practices.

In my view, the impact of tourism on the environment in developing countries largely depends on how it is implemented and regulated. Sustainable tourism practices, such as limiting visitor numbers, using renewable energy, and promoting eco-friendly activities, can minimize negative impacts while maximizing benefits. Governments and tourism operators must work together to strike a balance between economic development and environmental protection. Promoting sustainable tourism should be a priority to ensure long-term benefits for both the environment and local communities.

In conclusion, while tourism can pose significant environmental challenges in developing nations, it also offers opportunities for conservation and sustainable development. The key lies in responsible management and a commitment to sustainability from all stakeholders involved.

Tourism's environmental impact in developing nations

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to a high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphing is appropriate and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “ecotourism” and “biodiversity”.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only rare minor errors.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Tourism’s effect on the environment in developing countries is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s bad for the environment, while others believe it can help protect it. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who think tourism is harmful to the environment in developing countries have some good reasons. First, tourists can cause a lot of pollution. When many people visit a place, they often leave behind trash and use a lot of resources like water and energy. This can be hard for developing countries to handle. Also, building hotels and resorts for tourists can damage natural areas. For example, cutting down trees to build hotels can harm animals and plants that live there.

On the other hand, some people argue that tourism can actually help protect the environment in developing countries. One reason is that tourism can bring money that can be used for conservation. When tourists pay to visit natural places like national parks, that money can be used to protect those areas. Additionally, tourism can teach people about the importance of nature. When tourists see beautiful natural places, they might want to help protect them.

In my opinion, tourism can be both good and bad for the environment in developing countries. It depends on how it’s managed. If tourism is done in a way that respects nature and local communities, it can be good. But if it’s not controlled well, it can cause a lot of damage. How climate change is affecting the tourism industry is also an important factor to consider.

To conclude, tourism has both positive and negative effects on the environment in developing countries. It’s important for governments and tourism companies to work together to make sure tourism helps rather than harms the environment.

Eco-friendly tourism practices in a developing country

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the development of ideas is less thorough compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Ecotourism (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – Tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife.

2. Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.

3. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level; conserving an ecological balance by avoiding depletion of natural resources.

4. Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The action of preserving, protecting, or restoring the natural environment, natural ecosystems, vegetation, and wildlife.

5. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃə(r)/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

6. Habitat destruction (noun phrase) – /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪˈstrʌkʃən/ – The process by which natural habitat is rendered functionally unable to support the species present.

7. Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment.

8. Stakeholders (noun) – /ˈsteɪkˌhəʊldəz/ – People or groups with an interest or concern in a business or project, especially one involving environmental impacts.

In conclusion, the impact of tourism on the environment in developing nations is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. How tourism contributes to global economic development is another related topic that may appear in future IELTS exams. To prepare, consider practicing essays on topics such as:

• The role of government in regulating tourism’s environmental impact
• Balancing economic benefits and environmental protection in tourism
• Innovative solutions for sustainable tourism in developing countries

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and receive feedback from others.