Environmental topics frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, with individual environmental responsibility being a recurring theme in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam papers and trending global discussions, this topic has appeared in various forms approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019.
Let’s examine one commonly encountered question format:
Some people believe that solving environmental problems is the responsibility of individuals, while others say governments and large companies should be held accountable. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two contrasting viewpoints about environmental responsibility
- Present arguments for both individual and institutional accountability
- Provide a clear personal opinion
- Support all points with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Environmental protection has become a critical global concern, sparking debate about whether individuals or larger entities should take primary responsibility for addressing ecological challenges. While both parties have important roles to play, I believe a combined approach is essential for meaningful environmental progress.
Those who emphasize individual responsibility argue that collective action begins with personal choices. Daily decisions about consumption, transportation, and waste management directly impact the environment. For instance, when millions of people choose to use reusable shopping bags, reduce meat consumption, or opt for public transportation, the cumulative effect significantly reduces carbon emissions and waste. Moreover, individual awareness and action create social pressure that can influence broader policy changes.
However, others contend that governments and corporations wield far greater power to effect environmental change. Large companies control industrial processes responsible for the majority of global emissions and waste production. Government regulations on emissions standards, renewable energy adoption, and waste management can force widespread systematic changes that individual actions cannot match. For example, when China implemented strict industrial pollution controls, it achieved more significant air quality improvements in five years than decades of individual efforts could have accomplished.
In my view, meaningful environmental progress requires synchronized effort from both individuals and institutions. While personal choices create grassroots momentum and demonstrate public support for environmental protection, only governmental and corporate action can implement the large-scale structural changes necessary to address global environmental challenges. The most effective approach combines individual responsibility with strong institutional frameworks that facilitate and reward sustainable practices.
Combined Approach to Environmental Protection
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, environmental problems are very serious, and people have different opinions about who should solve them. Some think individual people are responsible, but others say big companies and governments should do more. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
First, many people think individuals should take action to protect the environment. They can do many things like using less plastic, saving electricity, and taking the bus instead of driving cars. When many people do these things together, it can help the environment a lot. Also, if people change their habits, it shows companies and governments that people care about the environment.
However, other people think big companies and governments are more responsible because they have more power. Companies make lots of pollution from their factories and need strict rules to stop them. Governments can make laws to control pollution and protect nature. For example, when governments make companies pay fines for pollution, it works better than asking people to use less electricity.
In my opinion, both sides need to work together to solve environmental problems. Individual people should try their best to protect nature, but governments and companies must also take big actions. If everyone does their part, we can make the environment better.
Essay Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with smooth transitions
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Natural integration of academic language
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Limited use of complex expressions
- Some repetition in ideas
- Basic examples without deep elaboration
Key Vocabulary
- ecological challenges (n.) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ – environmental problems
- cumulative effect (n.) /ˈkjuːmjələtɪv ɪˈfekt/ – combined result over time
- systematic changes (n.) /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk ˈtʃeɪndʒɪz/ – organized, comprehensive alterations
- grassroots momentum (n.) /ˈɡrɑːsruːts məˈmentəm/ – public support from ordinary people
- synchronized effort (n.) /ˈsɪŋkrənaɪzd ˈefət/ – coordinated action
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Individual vs collective responsibility in climate change
- Local vs global environmental solutions
- Personal environmental choices impact assessment
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
