The topic of clean energy in urban planning is increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a related question that has appeared in past IELTS tests:
Some people believe that in the future, we will have fewer cars in cities and people will use more public transportation. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analyzing the Question
This question relates to urban planning and transportation, which are closely linked to clean energy use in cities. It requires you to:
- Express your opinion on the future of urban transportation
- Discuss the potential shift from private cars to public transit
- Provide reasons and examples to support your view
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In my opinion, it is highly likely that cities of the future will indeed see a significant reduction in private car usage and a corresponding increase in public transportation utilization. This shift will be driven by a combination of environmental concerns, technological advancements, and evolving urban planning strategies.
Firstly, the growing awareness of climate change and air pollution is pushing both governments and citizens to seek more sustainable transportation options. Public transit systems, especially those powered by clean energy sources like electricity or hydrogen, offer a much lower carbon footprint per passenger compared to individual cars. As environmental regulations become stricter, the cost of owning and operating private vehicles in urban areas is likely to increase, further incentivizing the use of public transportation.
Secondly, rapid advancements in technology are making public transportation more efficient, convenient, and appealing. Smart city initiatives are integrating various modes of public transit, creating seamless, multi-modal transportation networks. Real-time tracking, mobile ticketing, and on-demand services are enhancing the user experience, making public transportation a more attractive option for commuters. Additionally, the development of autonomous vehicles could revolutionize public transit, potentially offering personalized, efficient services that blend the benefits of private cars with the sustainability of mass transit.
Furthermore, urban planners are increasingly adopting designs that prioritize public transportation and discourage private car use. Many cities are implementing extensive bus and bike lanes, pedestrianizing city centers, and limiting parking spaces. These changes not only make public transit more efficient but also make car ownership less practical and more costly in urban areas. The concept of transit-oriented development, where high-density, mixed-use areas are built around public transportation hubs, is gaining traction worldwide.
However, it’s important to note that this transition will not happen overnight and may vary in pace and extent across different cities and cultures. Some regions with deeply ingrained car-centric cultures may take longer to adapt. Additionally, the shift will require significant investment in public transportation infrastructure and may face resistance from certain sectors of society.
In conclusion, while the change may not be uniform or immediate, the overall trend towards reduced car usage and increased reliance on public transportation in future cities seems highly probable. This shift aligns with global sustainability goals, technological trends, and evolving urban planning philosophies, making it a logical and necessary evolution for our urban environments.
(Word count: 395)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that in the future, there will probably be fewer cars in cities and more people using public transportation. This change is likely to happen because of environmental problems, improvements in public transport, and changes in how cities are planned.
One main reason for this change is the growing concern about pollution and climate change. Cars produce a lot of pollution, which is bad for the environment and people’s health. Public transportation, like buses and trains, can carry more people while producing less pollution per person. As people become more aware of these issues, they may choose to use public transport instead of cars.
Another factor is that public transportation is getting better in many cities. New technologies are making buses and trains faster, more comfortable, and easier to use. For example, many cities now have apps that show when the next bus or train will arrive, making it easier for people to plan their trips. Some cities are also introducing electric buses, which are cleaner and quieter than old diesel buses.
City planners are also making changes that encourage people to use public transport. Many cities are building more bus lanes and bike paths, which make it easier and faster to travel without a car. Some cities are also making it harder to drive in city centers by reducing parking spaces or charging fees to drive in certain areas. These changes make owning a car in the city less convenient and more expensive.
However, this change might not happen quickly or in the same way in all cities. Some people still prefer the convenience of cars, especially in places where public transport is not well-developed. Also, in some countries, owning a car is seen as a status symbol, which might make people reluctant to switch to public transport.
In conclusion, I believe that the trend towards fewer cars and more use of public transportation in cities is likely to continue in the future. This change will be good for the environment and could make cities more livable. However, it will take time and require improvements in public transport systems to make this shift successful.
(Word count: 340)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
-
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The higher band essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced conclusion.
-
Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
-
Arguments: Both essays present clear arguments, but the higher band essay provides more detailed examples and considers counterarguments.
-
Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates this more effectively.
-
Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the higher band essay does so with greater depth and precision.
Vocabulary to Remember
-
Sustainable (adjective, /səˈsteɪnəbl/): Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
-
Incentivize (verb, /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/): Motivate or encourage someone to do something.
-
Multi-modal (adjective, /ˌmʌltiˈməʊdl/): Characterized by several different modes of activity or occurrence.
-
Autonomous (adjective, /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/): Acting independently or having the freedom to do so.
-
Pedestrianize (verb, /pɪˈdestriənaɪz/): Convert (a street or area) into a pedestrian zone, prohibiting most motor traffic.
-
Transit-oriented development (noun, /ˈtræn.zɪt ˈɔː.ri.en.tɪd dɪˈvel.əp.mənt/): A type of urban development that maximizes the amount of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transport.
-
Carbon footprint (noun, /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/): The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
In conclusion, the topic of clean energy in future urban planning, particularly as it relates to transportation, is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of renewable energy in modern cities
- Balancing urban development with environmental conservation
- The impact of smart city technologies on urban life
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary, 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.