Climate change and its effects on marine life have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme appears in approximately 15% of environment-related tasks, particularly in questions about environmental protection and human responsibility. the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems is especially relevant given its global significance.
Analysis of Recent IELTS Task 2 Question
Some people believe that climate change’s impact on marine ecosystems is irreversible, while others think immediate action can still prevent further damage. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Marine ecosystem degradation due to climate change
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- View 1: Irreversible damage
- View 2: Possibility of prevention
- Personal stance with supporting arguments
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether marine ecosystem damage from climate change is beyond repair has garnered significant attention. While some argue that the destruction is irreversible, others maintain that prompt intervention can mitigate further deterioration. In my view, while some damage is permanent, immediate action can still preserve significant marine biodiversity.
Those who believe marine ecosystem damage is irreversible present compelling evidence. effects of global warming on ocean ecosystems have already caused widespread coral bleaching, with some experts estimating that 50% of the Great Barrier Reef has been permanently damaged. Moreover, rising ocean temperatures and acidification have disrupted entire food chains, leading to the extinction of various marine species.
However, proponents of immediate action argue that there is still hope. Scientific research demonstrates that marine ecosystems possess remarkable resilience when given proper protection and time to recover. the effects of climate change on coastal cities can be mitigated through stringent emissions control and marine protected areas. For instance, certain coral reefs in the Pacific have shown signs of recovery following strict conservation measures.
In my opinion, while some marine ecosystem damage is irreparable, substantial preservation is still possible through immediate and decisive action. The implementation of comprehensive global policies, combined with technological innovations in carbon capture and sustainable fishing practices, can help protect remaining marine biodiversity. Furthermore, successful marine conservation projects worldwide demonstrate that ecosystem recovery is achievable with proper intervention.
Therefore, while we must acknowledge the permanent loss of some marine habitats, focusing on defeatism would be counterproductive. Instead, channeling resources into conservation efforts and emission reduction represents our best hope for preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people have different opinions about climate change affecting ocean life. Some think it’s too late to save marine ecosystems, but others believe we can still help if we act now. I will discuss both sides and share my thoughts.
People who think the damage cannot be fixed have some good reasons. Many fish and coral reefs are already dying because of warmer water. Also, plastic pollution and ocean acid make things worse. These problems have been happening for many years and some animals are already extinct.
On the other hand, some people think we can still help. They say that if we stop pollution and protect ocean areas, marine life can recover. For example, some places have banned fishing and the fish numbers are getting better. Also, new technology can help clean the oceans and reduce global warming.
I think both sides have good points, but I agree more that we can still help. Even though some damage is permanent, we should try to save what we can. If we use less plastic, reduce pollution, and make better laws to protect the ocean, we can make a difference.
In conclusion, while some ocean damage cannot be fixed, we should not give up. We need to take action now to protect marine life for the future.
Key Vocabulary
- Marine ecosystem (n) /məˈriːn/ – hệ sinh thái biển
- Biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – đa dạng sinh học
- Irreversible (adj) /ˌɪrɪˈvɜːsəbl/ – không thể đảo ngược
- Acidification (n) /əˌsɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – axit hóa
- Resilience (n) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – khả năng phục hồi
- Conservation (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – bảo tồn
- Mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – giảm thiểu
- Stringent (adj) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – nghiêm ngặt
Suggested Practice Topics
- Discuss the impact of ocean pollution on coastal tourism
- Evaluate the effectiveness of current marine conservation efforts
- Examine the role of international cooperation in protecting marine ecosystems
Remember to practice writing your own essays and share them in the comments section for feedback. Focus on incorporating the vocabulary provided and maintaining clear argument structure.