The topic of clean energy and its impact on economic growth has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Given the global focus on sustainability and environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question that reflects this trend and provide model essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Task
Some people believe that economic growth is the only way to end poverty and hunger in the world, while others say that economic growth is causing damage to the environment and should be limited. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question touches on the complex relationship between economic growth, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability. It requires you to consider multiple perspectives and form a balanced opinion. Let’s break down the key elements:
- Economic growth as a solution to poverty and hunger
- Economic growth causing environmental damage
- The need to discuss both viewpoints
- Forming and expressing your own opinion
Model Essay (Band 8-9)
Economic development has long been viewed as the panacea for global issues such as poverty and hunger. However, this perspective is increasingly challenged by those who argue that unchecked growth poses significant threats to our environment. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting a nuanced opinion on this complex issue.
Proponents of economic growth argue that it is the most effective means of lifting people out of poverty and ensuring food security. They contend that as economies expand, more jobs are created, incomes rise, and governments have increased resources to invest in social programs and infrastructure. For instance, China’s rapid economic growth over the past few decades has lifted millions out of extreme poverty, demonstrating the potential of this approach.
On the other hand, critics highlight the environmental costs associated with unrestrained economic growth. They point to issues such as deforestation, air and water pollution, and climate change as direct consequences of industrialization and consumerism. These environmental challenges, they argue, not only threaten the planet’s ecosystems but also pose long-term risks to human health and well-being, potentially undermining the very progress that economic growth aims to achieve.
In my opinion, while economic growth is crucial for addressing poverty and hunger, it must be pursued in a manner that is environmentally sustainable. The concept of “green growth” or “sustainable development” offers a promising middle ground. This approach focuses on promoting economic expansion through clean energy adoption, resource efficiency, and circular economy principles. By investing in renewable energy sources, implementing stricter environmental regulations, and fostering innovation in sustainable technologies, nations can continue to grow economically while minimizing environmental impact.
In conclusion, the path forward lies not in choosing between economic growth and environmental protection, but in finding ways to harmonize these objectives. Governments, businesses, and individuals must collaborate to develop and implement strategies that promote sustainable economic growth. Only by balancing these competing needs can we hope to create a world that is both prosperous and environmentally sound for future generations.
(Word count: 309)
Model Essay (Band 6-7)
The question of whether economic growth is the solution to poverty and hunger or a cause of environmental problems is a complex one. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and give my opinion.
Many people believe that economic growth is necessary to end poverty and hunger. When the economy grows, more jobs are created, and people earn more money. This means they can buy food and other necessities. Also, governments have more money to spend on things like healthcare and education. For example, in many developing countries, economic growth has helped reduce poverty rates.
However, others argue that economic growth is damaging the environment. As countries develop, they often use more natural resources and produce more pollution. This can lead to problems like deforestation, air pollution, and climate change. These environmental issues can harm people’s health and quality of life, especially for poor communities.
In my opinion, both arguments have some truth. Economic growth is important for reducing poverty, but we need to find ways to grow the economy without damaging the environment too much. I think the solution is to focus on sustainable development and clean energy. This means using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, and finding ways to use resources more efficiently.
To conclude, while economic growth is necessary to fight poverty and hunger, we must also protect the environment. Governments and businesses should work together to find ways to grow the economy in a sustainable way. This will help ensure a better future for everyone.
(Word count: 253)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a high band score.
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Vocabulary: The band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases such as “panacea,” “unchecked growth,” and “harmonize these objectives.” The band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice. The band 6-7 essay uses simpler structures but still maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Cohesion and Coherence: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the band 8-9 essay does this more skillfully and with greater variety.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced opinion.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Economic growth (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈɡrəʊθ/: An increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.
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Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
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Industrialization (noun) /ɪnˌdʌstriəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The development of industries in a country on a wide scale.
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Consumerism (noun) /kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/: The protection or promotion of the interests of consumers.
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Circular economy (noun) /ˈsɜːkjələr iˈkɒnəmi/: An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.
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Resource efficiency (noun) /rɪˈsɔːs ɪˈfɪʃnsi/: The maximization of the supply of natural resources through the use of economically efficient methods.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
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Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/: The action of clearing a wide area of trees.
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Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns.
Conclusion
The topic of clean energy and economic growth is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in promoting clean energy
- The impact of renewable energy on job creation
- Balancing economic development with environmental protection
- The challenges of transitioning to a green economy
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice by writing an essay on the given topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will significantly enhance your IELTS writing skills.