Space tourism and its environmental implications have become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, appearing in various forms across test centers worldwide since 2019. Based on analysis of past exam papers and current global trends, this topic is likely to remain significant in future tests. One particularly common question format deals with the environmental concerns of space tourism versus its potential benefits.
Let’s examine one such question that has appeared in recent IELTS examinations:
Some people believe that space tourism should be promoted as it generates revenue and advances science, while others argue it damages the environment and benefits only the wealthy. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
The role of space exploration in advancing scientific research shows this is a complex issue requiring careful analysis.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Space tourism
- Task: Discuss both views + opinion
- Key areas to cover:
- Benefits: Revenue generation and scientific advancement
- Drawbacks: Environmental impact and accessibility concerns
- Personal stance with justification
Space tourism environmental impact discussion in IELTS writing
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Space exploration for tourism purposes has sparked intense debate regarding its merits and drawbacks. While some advocate for its promotion based on economic and scientific benefits, others express concerns about its environmental footprint and exclusive nature. I believe that while space tourism offers some advantages, its environmental costs currently outweigh its benefits.
Proponents of space tourism highlight several compelling benefits. Firstly, the industry generates substantial revenue through ticket sales and associated services, contributing to economic growth. Additionally, impact of space exploration on technological advancements demonstrates how space tourism drives innovation in spacecraft technology, materials science, and safety systems, which can have broader applications in various sectors.
However, critics raise valid concerns about environmental consequences. Space launches produce significant carbon emissions and release harmful particles into the upper atmosphere, potentially contributing to climate change. Moreover, the exclusive nature of space tourism, with tickets costing millions of dollars, means its benefits are limited to an extremely wealthy minority, raising questions about social equity and resource allocation.
how does space research benefit society reveals both positive and negative impacts, but I believe the environmental concerns are paramount. While technological advancement is valuable, the current environmental crisis demands immediate attention. Until cleaner propulsion technologies are developed, expanding space tourism could accelerate environmental degradation.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7.0)
The growth of space tourism has created different opinions about its value to society. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and provide my perspective on this issue.
Those supporting space tourism point to important benefits. First, it creates new jobs and brings money to the space industry. Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin invest heavily in local economies. Second, how does space tourism impact future exploration shows it helps develop new technologies that can be used in other areas.
On the other hand, there are serious environmental concerns. Space rockets release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Also, only very rich people can afford space travel, which means most people cannot benefit from it directly.
In my opinion, while space tourism has some advantages, the environmental damage it causes is too serious to ignore. I believe we should focus on solving Earth’s environmental problems before expanding space tourism.
Essay Analysis and Band Score Explanation
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “compelling benefits,” “environmental footprint”
- Complex structures: “While some advocate…”
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Balanced discussion with well-supported arguments
Band 7.0 Essay Features:
- Good vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Simpler sentence structures
- Clear organization but less refined transitions
- Basic but clear arguments
Key Vocabulary
- propulsion (n) /prəˈpʌlʃən/ – the action of driving or pushing forward
- paramount (adj) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – more important than anything else
- degradation (n) /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃən/ – the process of becoming worse
- exclusive (adj) /ɪkˈskluːsɪv/ – limited to certain people
- compelling (adj) /kəmˈpelɪŋ/ – convincing and demanding attention
Additional practice topics might include:
- The balance between space exploration and environmental protection
- The role of private companies in space tourism
- Environmental regulations for space tourism
Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback.
