Environmental protection through sustainable packaging has become a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent tests. The topic’s relevance to global sustainability makes it likely to appear in future examinations, particularly in questions about government policies, consumer behavior, and environmental responsibility.
Should governments ban plastic bags and encourage the use of eco-friendly alternatives? This question represents one of the most common approaches to testing candidates’ understanding of environmental packaging solutions.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that manufacturers should be required by law to use eco-friendly packaging materials, while others think consumer choices should drive packaging decisions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on packaging regulation
- Present balanced arguments
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Eco-friendly packaging materials including biodegradable containers and reusable bags
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
The debate over whether eco-friendly packaging should be legally mandated or left to market forces reflects the complexity of addressing environmental challenges. While both approaches have merit, I believe a combined strategy would be most effective.
Those advocating for legal requirements argue that manufacturers will not voluntarily adopt sustainable packaging due to cost considerations. importance of recycling for reducing global waste Mandatory regulations would ensure uniform adoption of environmentally responsible practices across industries, potentially accelerating the transition to sustainable packaging solutions. For example, several European countries have successfully implemented laws requiring biodegradable packaging, resulting in significant reductions in plastic waste.
Conversely, proponents of consumer-driven change maintain that market forces naturally encourage manufacturers to meet customer preferences. ocean plastic pollution and international solutions When environmentally conscious consumers consistently choose products with sustainable packaging, companies naturally adapt their practices to maintain market share. This approach allows for more flexible and innovative solutions while avoiding the potential economic disruption of strict regulations.
In my view, the most effective approach would combine both strategies. Government regulations could establish minimum standards for packaging sustainability, while market forces would drive innovation beyond these baseline requirements. This balanced approach would ensure consistent progress while maintaining economic viability and encouraging creative solutions.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
The question of whether eco-friendly packaging should be required by law or determined by consumers is important for our environment. There are different opinions about this issue, and I will discuss both sides.
Some people think laws should force companies to use eco-friendly packaging. This is because many businesses choose cheaper options that harm the environment if they are not regulated. For example, many supermarkets still use plastic bags because they cost less than paper or cloth alternatives. Laws could stop this practice and help protect nature.
should single-use plastics be prohibited globally Other people believe consumer choice is better. When customers prefer eco-friendly products, companies will change their packaging to keep their customers happy. We can see this happening with some coffee shops that now use paper straws because customers complained about plastic ones.
I think both ways are needed. Laws can make sure all companies follow basic rules about packaging, while customers can encourage businesses to do even better. This way, we can protect the environment more effectively.
Key Vocabulary
- biodegradable (adj.) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of being decomposed naturally
- sustainable (adj.) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over time without damaging the environment
- mandate (v.) /mænˈdeɪt/ – to officially require something
- innovative (adj.) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – introducing new ideas or methods
- viable (adj.) /ˈvaɪəbl/ – capable of working successfully
- regulations (n.) /ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃnz/ – official rules made by a government or authority
- implementation (n.) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action
Conclusion
The topic of eco-friendly packaging solutions remains crucial for IELTS candidates. Similar questions might focus on:
- The role of technology in sustainable packaging
- Economic impacts of environmental regulations
- Consumer responsibility in environmental protection
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
