Recent IELTS examination trends show environmental taxation topics appearing frequently in Writing Task 2, particularly concerning government policies and economic measures for environmental protection. Let’s analyze a recent exam question and explore sample responses across different band scores.
Some people believe that governments should tax companies that cause environmental problems to encourage them to be more environmentally friendly. Others think there are better ways to protect the environment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Environmental taxation vs. alternative environmental protection methods
- Task: Discussion + opinion
- Key aspects to cover:
- Arguments for environmental taxation
- Alternative environmental protection methods
- Personal stance with justification
Band 9 Sample Essay (290 words)
Environmental protection has become a critical concern worldwide, leading to debates about the most effective ways to encourage corporate environmental responsibility. While some advocate for punitive taxation, others propose alternative solutions. In my view, a combination of approaches would yield the best results.
Proponents of environmental taxation argue that financial penalties are the most direct way to influence corporate behavior. When companies face substantial costs for environmental damage, they are more likely to invest in cleaner technologies and sustainable practices. For instance, carbon taxes in Sweden have successfully reduced industrial emissions by 25% since their implementation. Additionally, the revenue generated from these taxes can fund environmental restoration projects and research into green technologies.
However, critics suggest several alternative approaches that may be more effective. Firstly, providing tax incentives for environmentally friendly practices could encourage positive change rather than punishing negative behavior. Secondly, investing in research and development of sustainable technologies could make eco-friendly alternatives more accessible and cost-effective. For example, government subsidies for renewable energy in Germany have significantly accelerated the adoption of solar and wind power.
In my opinion, the most effective approach would combine both taxation and supportive measures. While environmental taxes can serve as a deterrent, they should be complemented by incentives and educational programs. This balanced strategy would create both push and pull factors, encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices while providing them with the means to do so. The success of such comprehensive approaches has been demonstrated in countries like Denmark, where a combination of environmental taxes and green subsidies has led to substantial improvements in corporate environmental performance.
Band 7 Sample Essay (283 words)
The debate about whether environmental taxation is the best way to protect our environment has gained significant attention recently. While some people support taxing polluting companies, others believe there are better solutions. I will examine both perspectives before sharing my view.
Those who support environmental taxes believe that financial pressure is necessary to change company behavior. When businesses have to pay more for causing pollution, they will try to find cleaner ways to operate. For example, many companies in Europe have reduced their carbon emissions after carbon taxes were introduced. These taxes also provide money that governments can use for environmental projects.
On the other hand, there are several alternative approaches to environmental protection. One method is to offer rewards and incentives to companies that use green technology. Another approach is to focus on education and raising awareness about environmental issues. Some countries have successfully implemented programs that teach businesses about sustainable practices, which has led to voluntary improvements in their environmental performance.
In my opinion, while environmental taxes can be effective, they should not be the only solution. I believe a mixed approach would work better. This could include some taxes for the worst polluters, but also positive incentives for companies that make environmental improvements. For instance, governments could reduce taxes for businesses that invest in renewable energy or waste reduction.
Band 6 Sample Essay (275 words)
Environmental protection is a big problem today, and people have different ideas about how to solve it. Some think the government should make companies pay taxes if they harm the environment, but others think there are better ways. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Companies that damage the environment should pay taxes because this will make them change their behavior. When they have to pay more money for pollution, they will try to find better ways to work. For example, if a factory has to pay high taxes for releasing dirty water, they might buy new equipment to clean the water first. Also, the government can use this money to help fix environmental problems.
However, there are other ways to protect the environment. The government can give money to companies that use clean energy or reduce waste. They can also make rules about protecting nature and teach people why it’s important. Some countries have good results when they help companies learn about environmental protection instead of just making them pay taxes.
I think both ways can help protect the environment. Taxes are good because they make companies think carefully about their actions, but helping companies become more environmentally friendly is also important. Maybe the best way is to use both methods together. This means having some taxes but also helping companies that want to improve.
Key Vocabulary
- punitive (adj) /ˈpjuːnɪtɪv/ – intended as punishment
- deterrent (n) /dɪˈterənt/ – something that discourages certain behavior
- incentive (n) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – something that encourages certain behavior
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to continue over time without damaging the environment
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete, including all aspects
- emissions (n) /ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – substances released into the air
- subsidies (n) /ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ – money given by government to help reduce costs
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
Future practice questions might include:
- Environmental taxes on individual consumers
- Carbon pricing in international trade
- Green incentives for small businesses
- Corporate environmental responsibility measures
Feel free to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback!