Deep-sea mining and its effects on marine ecosystems has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past IELTS tests, this environmental theme appears approximately 2-3 times per year, particularly in questions about environmental protection and technological advancement. Let’s examine a recent task that represents this critical issue.
Task Analysis and Sample Essays
Some people believe that deep-sea mining is necessary for technological advancement and economic growth, while others argue it causes irreversible damage to marine ecosystems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Understanding the Task
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss advantages of deep-sea mining (technological/economic benefits)
- Examine environmental concerns
- Present and justify a personal stance
Deep-sea mining operations causing environmental damage to marine ecosystems
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The debate over deep-sea mining represents a classic conflict between economic development and environmental preservation. While proponents emphasize its technological necessity, critics highlight its devastating ecological impact. In my view, the environmental risks far outweigh the potential benefits.
Advocates of deep-sea mining present compelling economic arguments. The extraction of rare earth minerals and metals is crucial for manufacturing advanced technologies, from smartphones to electric vehicles. Countries like China and India particularly stress that these resources are essential for their industrial growth and technological advancement. Furthermore, deep-sea mining could potentially create thousands of jobs and generate significant revenue for developing nations.
However, the environmental consequences are severe and potentially irreversible. Marine biologists have demonstrated that deep-sea mining operations destroy delicate underwater ecosystems that have evolved over millions of years. These activities not only directly harm marine life but also release sediments and toxins that can affect entire food chains. The importance of protecting marine ecosystems for biodiversity cannot be overstated, as these environments play crucial roles in maintaining Earth’s ecological balance.
In my assessment, while the economic benefits are tangible, they are short-term gains that come at an unacceptable environmental cost. Alternative solutions, such as improving recycling technologies and developing sustainable substitutes, offer more responsible paths forward. The preservation of our ocean ecosystems should take precedence over immediate economic gains.
Band 8.5 Analysis
- Clear position and balanced discussion
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Excellent paragraph cohesion
- Professional academic tone
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Deep-sea mining is a topic that makes people have different opinions. Some people think it is good for the economy and technology, while others worry about the damage to the ocean.
People who support deep-sea mining say it helps make new technology. Many electronic devices need special metals that we can find in the deep sea. Also, mining companies can make money and give jobs to people who need work. This helps poor countries develop their economy.
On the other hand, deep-sea mining hurts sea animals and plants. When machines dig the ocean floor, they destroy the homes of many sea creatures. The noise and pollution from mining also make problems for fish and other marine life. Some scientists say these damages cannot be fixed.
I think deep-sea mining is more bad than good. Even though we need materials for technology, we should find better ways to get them. Maybe we can recycle more or make new materials that don’t hurt the environment.
Band 6.5 Analysis
- Basic argument structure present
- Simple vocabulary and grammar
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Basic cohesion between paragraphs
- Informal tone at times
Key Vocabulary
- Irreversible (adj) /ˌɪrɪˈvɜːsəbl/ – cannot be undone
- Ecosystem (n) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – community of organisms and environment
- Delicate (adj) /ˈdelɪkət/ – easily damaged
- Sediments (n) /ˈsedɪmənts/ – matter that settles to the bottom
- Indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – naturally occurring in a place
- Biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – variety of life forms
- Sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain long-term
- Preservation (n) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ – protection from harm
Future practice topics might include:
- Impact of deep-sea mining on coastal communities
- International regulations for ocean resource extraction
- Alternative technologies for mineral extraction
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
