Climate change is a pressing global issue that has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and the urgency of the topic, it’s highly likely that questions related to international cooperation in combating climate change will continue to appear frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past exams and explore sample essays for different band scores.

Some people believe that international cooperation is the only way to tackle global environmental issues such as climate change. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether international cooperation is the sole solution to addressing global environmental problems, particularly climate change. The key aspects to consider are:

1. The phrase “the only way” – Is international cooperation truly the sole solution?
2. The scope of “global environmental issues” with a focus on climate change
3. The extent of your agreement or disagreement with this statement

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity today, and its global nature necessitates a coordinated response. While I largely agree that international cooperation is crucial in addressing this issue, I believe it is not the only solution but rather a fundamental component of a multi-faceted approach.

International cooperation is indeed essential in combating climate change for several reasons. Firstly, greenhouse gas emissions do not respect national borders, making it impossible for any single country to effectively mitigate the problem alone. The Paris Agreement, for instance, demonstrates the power of nations working together towards a common goal of reducing global temperature rise. Secondly, collaborative efforts enable the sharing of knowledge, technology, and resources, which is particularly beneficial for developing countries that may lack the means to implement green technologies independently.

However, it would be an oversimplification to claim that international cooperation is the only way to tackle climate change. Local and national initiatives also play a vital role in this fight. For example, cities implementing green building codes or countries investing in renewable energy infrastructure can significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions. Moreover, individual actions, such as adopting sustainable lifestyles or supporting eco-friendly businesses, collectively make a substantial impact.

People participating in a city cleanup event focused on sustainability

Furthermore, the private sector’s involvement is crucial in driving innovation and scaling up sustainable solutions. Companies developing clean technologies or adopting circular economy principles are essential in transitioning to a low-carbon future. These efforts, while often international in scope, are not necessarily dependent on formal intergovernmental cooperation.

In conclusion, while international cooperation is undoubtedly a cornerstone in the fight against climate change, it is most effective when combined with local, national, and private sector initiatives. A holistic approach that leverages global collaboration alongside grassroots movements and technological innovation offers the best hope for addressing this complex, worldwide challenge.

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position that largely agrees with the statement while acknowledging other important factors.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “However,” “Moreover”).
3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control (e.g., “multi-faceted approach,” “greenhouse gas emissions,” “oversimplification”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors.
5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

International cooperation is considered by some as the only solution to global environmental problems like climate change. While I agree that working together internationally is very important, I don’t think it’s the only way to address these issues.

One reason why international cooperation is crucial is that climate change affects all countries. When nations work together, they can make bigger changes. For example, the Paris Agreement shows how countries can set goals together to reduce global warming. Also, rich countries can help poor countries with money and technology to fight climate change.

Delegates from various countries engaging in discussions at a climate change conference

However, I believe that other actions are also important in tackling environmental problems. Local governments can make a difference by creating laws to protect the environment in their areas. For instance, some cities have banned single-use plastics or encouraged the use of public transport to reduce pollution.
Individual actions are also significant in fighting climate change. People can choose to use less energy, recycle more, or eat less meat. These small actions, when done by many people, can have a big impact on the environment.

Companies also play a role in addressing environmental issues. Many businesses are now developing green technologies or using more sustainable practices. This shows that the private sector can contribute to solving climate change without necessarily relying on international agreements.

In conclusion, while international cooperation is very important in tackling global environmental issues like climate change, it is not the only solution. A combination of global, local, individual, and business efforts is needed to effectively address these complex problems.

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates the qualities of a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
3. Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but it lacks the sophistication and precision of higher band scores.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though there may be occasional errors.
5. Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is less than in higher band scores.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Global cooperation (noun) – Collaboration between countries on a worldwide scale
   Pronunciation: /ˈɡləʊbəl kəʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
2. Climate change mitigation (noun phrase) – Actions to reduce the severity of climate change
   Pronunciation: /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/
3. Greenhouse gas emissions (noun phrase) – Release of gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect
   Pronunciation: /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs ɪˈmɪʃənz/
4. Sustainable (adjective) – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting resources
   Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbəl/
5. Renewable energy (noun phrase) – Energy from sources that are naturally replenished
   Pronunciation: /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/
6. Carbon footprint (noun phrase) – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
   Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/
7. Eco-friendly (adjective) – Not harmful to the environment
   Pronunciation: /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/
8. Circular economy (noun phrase) – An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and continual use of resources
   Pronunciation: /ˈsɜːkjələr ɪˈkɒnəmi/

These vocabulary items are particularly relevant to the topic of climate change and international cooperation, and using them effectively can enhance the lexical resource aspect of your essay.

In conclusion, the topic of global cooperation in fighting climate change is likely to remain a significant theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

• The role of developed countries in assisting developing nations with climate change adaptation
• The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
• The effectiveness of international environmental agreements

Remember to structure your essays clearly, develop your ideas with relevant examples, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. Feel free to practice by writing an essay on the given topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Climate Change Mitigation
• The Role of Technology in Preventing Climate Disasters
• How Climate Science is Reshaping Global Policies

These resources can provide additional context and vocabulary to enhance your understanding and writing on this crucial global issue.