The IELTS Reading test assesses a candidate’s ability to understand and respond to English texts. Subjects for the reading texts often reflect current global issues and topics, one of which is the impact of renewable energy on economic diversification. Given its relevance, it’s likely to appear in future exams. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding this topic, alongside a detailed practice test for IELTS Reading.
IELTS Reading Practice: Impact of Renewable Energy on Economic Diversification
Reading Passage
Title: Impact of Renewable Energy on Economic Diversification
Renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydro, are becoming increasingly important in global energy markets. This shift is not only reducing our dependence on fossil fuels but also driving economic diversification in many regions. Economic diversification refers to the process by which a country expands its range of economic activities to avoid reliance on a single industry or commodity.
One of the key advantages of investing in renewable energy is the stimulation of job creation across multiple sectors. The renewable energy sector generates employment opportunities in fields such as manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research and development. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector employed 11.5 million people globally in 2019, a number that continues to grow annually.
Additionally, renewable energy projects support local economies by fostering the development of associated industries. For instance, the production of solar panels necessitates raw materials like silicon, thereby benefiting mining sectors. Wind turbine installations often require logistic and transportation services, boosting those respective sectors. Furthermore, the rise of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in associated industries enhances economic resilience.
Renewable energy also contributes to energy security and price stability, which are critical for sustainable economic growth. With a diversified energy portfolio, countries can better manage fluctuations in the global energy market, reducing their vulnerability to price shocks associated with fossil fuels. This is particularly significant for developing countries that are heavily dependent on energy imports.
Moreover, the environmental benefits of renewable energy translate into economic advantages. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, countries can mitigate climate change-related disasters, which often have devastating economic impacts. Transitioning to renewable energy is pivotal for creating sustainable, long-term economic growth and stability.
Questions
Multiple Choice
-
According to the text, one of the primary benefits of investing in renewable energy is:
- A. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- B. Creating employment opportunities
- C. Increasing reliance on fossil fuels
- D. Boosting educational sectors
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The term “economic diversification” is best described as:
- A. Increasing job opportunities in one industry
- B. Expanding economic activities to avoid reliance on a single industry
- C. Averting investment in renewable sources
- D. Enhancing technological advancements
True/False/Not Given
-
IRENA reported that the renewable energy sector employed exactly 11.5 million people in the year 2019. (True/False/Not Given)
-
Renewable energy projects exclusively support the energy sector and have no impact on other industries. (True/False/Not Given)
Matching Information
- Match the following benefits of renewable energy with their explanations from the text:
- A. Energy security
- B. Local economic support
- C. Climate change mitigation
Sentence Completion
- Renewable energy contributes to energy security by ___.
- The rise of SMEs in renewable energy associated industries helps in ____.
Answer Key
Multiple Choice
- B. Creating employment opportunities
- B. Expanding economic activities to avoid reliance on a single industry
True/False/Not Given
- False. The text states “the renewable energy sector employed 11.5 million people globally in 2019”, but does not assert it was exactly that number.
- False. Renewable energy projects support various sectors like mining, logistics, and transportation.
Matching Information
-
- A. Energy security – “Renewable energy also contributes to energy security and price stability”
- B. Local economic support – “Renewable energy projects support local economies by fostering the development of associated industries.”
- C. Climate change mitigation – “By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, countries can mitigate climate change-related disasters”
Sentence Completion
- Renewable energy contributes to energy security by providing a diversified energy portfolio.
- The rise of SMEs in renewable energy associated industries helps in enhancing economic resilience.
Common Pitfalls in IELTS Reading
When tackling IELTS Reading passages:
- Avoid scanning the passage for specific words from the questions; understand the context.
- Manage your time efficiently; don’t spend too long on a single question.
- Pay attention to detail in True/False/Not Given questions, as minor differences can change the answer.
Vocabulary and Grammar Focus
Key Vocabulary
- Diversification [noun]: /ˌdɪ.vər.sɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ – the action of making or becoming more varied.
- Employment [noun]: /ɪmˈplɔɪ.mənt/ – the state of having paid work.
- Sustainability [noun]: /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/ – avoiding the depletion of natural resources to maintain an ecological balance.
Important Grammar Structures
- Relative Clauses: “The renewable energy sector, which employed 11.5 million people, continues to grow.”
- Subordinate Clauses: “Despite the economic challenges, renewable energy projects continue to thrive.”
Tips for High IELTS Reading Scores
- Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with different passage types.
- Expand your vocabulary: Read widely to improve your understanding of various topics.
- Time Management: Allocate sufficient time for each section to ensure you can answer all questions.
By consistently practicing and focusing on such topics, you can enhance your IELTS Reading skills and achieve a higher band score. Best of luck in your preparations!