The topic of sustainable tourism has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across recent test papers. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this theme is likely to remain significant, particularly given global emphasis on environmental conservation and responsible travel practices.
As Tourism: economic impact and sustainability becomes more crucial in our modern world, let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this topic:
Some people believe that governments should focus on promoting sustainable tourism to protect the environment and local cultures. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their position on government involvement in sustainable tourism
- Discuss environmental and cultural preservation aspects
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced perspective
Sustainable Tourism Environmental Protection Methods
Band 8 Sample Essay
Tourism’s environmental impact has become a critical concern, making government intervention in promoting sustainable practices essential. I strongly agree that authorities should prioritize sustainable tourism development for both environmental and cultural preservation.
Firstly, government-led sustainable tourism initiatives can significantly reduce how tourism can contribute to environmental degradation. By implementing strict regulations on waste management, energy consumption, and visitor numbers at popular destinations, authorities can effectively minimize tourism’s ecological footprint. For instance, Bhutan’s high-value, low-impact tourism policy has successfully preserved its natural landscapes while generating substantial revenue.
Moreover, sustainable tourism helps protect local cultures from over-commercialization. When governments establish guidelines for cultural tourism, they can ensure authentic experiences while preventing the exploitation of local communities. The success of importance of volunteer tourism in community aid in places like Thailand demonstrates how properly managed tourism can benefit both visitors and locals.
However, implementation requires careful planning and substantial resources. Governments must balance economic benefits with environmental and cultural preservation goals. This involves creating comprehensive policies, educating stakeholders, and monitoring compliance with sustainable practices.
In conclusion, government involvement in promoting sustainable tourism is crucial for protecting both environmental and cultural heritage. While challenging, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial implementation costs.
(290 words)
Cultural Preservation Through Sustainable Tourism Practices
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I agree that governments should promote sustainable tourism because it helps protect the environment and local cultures.
First, when governments support sustainable tourism, they can control environmental damage. Many tourist places have problems with pollution and damage to nature. For example, in my country, some beautiful beaches are getting dirty because too many tourists come there. If the government makes rules about how many people can visit and what they can do, it will help keep these places clean.
Second, local cultures need protection from too much tourism. When too many tourists come, sometimes local people change their way of life to make money. The impact of tourism on historical sites shows that without proper management, important traditions can be lost. Governments can make rules to help local people keep their culture while still earning money from tourism.
However, making sustainable tourism work is not easy. It costs money and needs many people to work together. Some businesses might not like new rules because they think they will earn less money.
In conclusion, I think governments should definitely promote sustainable tourism. It is important for keeping our environment and cultures safe for the future.
(169 words)
Key Vocabulary
- Sustainable tourism (n) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism that respects environment and culture
- Over-commercialization (n) /ˈəʊvə kəˌmɜːʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – excessive focus on making money
- Ecological footprint (n) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – environmental impact
- Stakeholders (n) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldəz/ – people involved in or affected by something
- Heritage (n) /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditional culture and history
Conclusion
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider these additional potential questions:
- The role of technology in promoting sustainable tourism
- Balancing tourism development with environmental protection
- Local community involvement in sustainable tourism projects
importance of investing in diverse industries can provide additional context for understanding tourism’s economic implications.
