Air pollution is a pressing global issue, and the role of renewable energy in mitigating this problem has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on the analysis of past IELTS exams and current environmental trends, it’s highly likely that questions related to renewable energy and air pollution will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Some people believe that the best way to reduce air pollution is to use more renewable energy sources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question is a classic example of an opinion-based IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt. It requires you to:
- Understand the claim: Using more renewable energy is the best way to reduce air pollution.
- Express your opinion: Agree, disagree, or partially agree.
- Support your view with reasons and examples.
- Conclude with a clear stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
Renewable Energy vs Air Pollution
Renewable energy undoubtedly plays a crucial role in combating air pollution, and I largely agree that it is one of the most effective solutions to this pressing environmental issue. However, while it is a significant factor, it should be part of a comprehensive approach rather than being considered the sole best method.
The transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can dramatically reduce air pollution levels. Unlike fossil fuels, these clean energy alternatives do not emit harmful pollutants like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter during electricity generation. For instance, China’s aggressive investment in solar and wind energy has led to a notable improvement in air quality in major cities like Beijing, demonstrating the tangible benefits of renewable energy adoption.
Moreover, the widespread use of renewable energy can have cascading positive effects on air quality. As electricity grids become cleaner, the electrification of transportation and heating systems becomes increasingly beneficial for air quality. Electric vehicles powered by renewable electricity, for example, can significantly reduce urban air pollution, which is often exacerbated by vehicle emissions.
However, it would be an oversimplification to claim that renewable energy alone is the best solution to air pollution. A multi-faceted approach is necessary to address this complex issue effectively. Stricter emission regulations for industries, improved urban planning, and enhanced public transportation systems are equally important components of a comprehensive air quality management strategy. For example, cities like London have successfully reduced air pollution through a combination of renewable energy adoption, congestion charges, and the promotion of cycling and walking.
Furthermore, energy efficiency measures and carbon capture technologies should not be overlooked. These approaches can complement renewable energy by reducing overall energy demand and mitigating emissions from existing fossil fuel plants during the transition period.
In conclusion, while I strongly agree that renewable energy is a powerful tool in the fight against air pollution, it should be viewed as a central part of a broader, integrated approach. The most effective strategy to combat air pollution will involve a combination of renewable energy adoption, policy measures, and technological innovations across various sectors.
[Word count: 329]
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent IELTS Writing Task 2 skills:
- Clear position: The writer agrees with the statement but provides a nuanced view.
- Coherent structure: The essay follows a logical progression of ideas.
- Rich vocabulary: Uses sophisticated words and phrases like “cascading positive effects” and “multi-faceted approach”.
- Varied sentence structures: Combines simple and complex sentences effectively.
- Strong examples: Cites specific cases like China’s renewable energy investment and London’s comprehensive approach.
- Cohesive devices: Uses linking words appropriately to connect ideas.
- Addresses the task fully: Discusses both the importance of renewable energy and other factors in reducing air pollution.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
I agree that using more renewable energy sources is a good way to reduce air pollution. Renewable energy can help a lot, but there are also other things we need to do to solve this problem.
Renewable energy like solar and wind power is clean and doesn’t make air pollution. When we use these instead of coal or oil, we make less pollution. For example, in many countries, when they start using more solar panels, the air gets cleaner. This shows that renewable energy really works to reduce air pollution.
Another good thing about renewable energy is that it can be used for many things. We can use it to make electricity for homes and factories. We can also use it for cars and buses. If we have electric cars that use renewable energy, we will have less pollution from vehicles in cities. This is very important because many big cities have bad air quality because of too many cars.
However, I don’t think renewable energy is the only way to reduce air pollution. We also need to do other things. For example, we should plant more trees in cities because trees can clean the air. We should also make rules for factories to use cleaner technology. People can also help by using public transport more often or riding bicycles instead of driving cars all the time.
In conclusion, I believe that renewable energy is very important for reducing air pollution, but it’s not the only solution. We need to use renewable energy and also do many other things to make our air clean. If we do all these things together, we can have better air quality in the future.
[Word count: 272]
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good IELTS Writing Task 2 skills but with some limitations:
- Clear position: The writer agrees with the statement but acknowledges other factors.
- Coherent structure: The essay has a logical flow of ideas.
- Adequate vocabulary: Uses relevant vocabulary but lacks sophistication.
- Simple sentence structures: Mostly uses simple sentences with some attempts at complex structures.
- Basic examples: Provides general examples without specific details.
- Some cohesive devices: Uses basic linking words to connect ideas.
- Addresses the task: Covers the main points but lacks depth in analysis.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2 on Renewable Energy and Air Pollution
Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used.
Air pollution (noun) /eə pəˈluːʃən/: The presence of harmful substances in the air.
Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsəl fjuːəlz/: Non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and gas.
Emissions (noun) /ɪˈmɪʃənz/: The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation.
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities.
Electrification (noun) /ɪˌlektrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/: The process of powering by electricity.
Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for operation.
Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
Particulate matter (noun) /pɑːˈtɪkjʊlət ˈmætə(r)/: Tiny pieces of solid or liquid matter suspended in the air.
Conclusion
The role of renewable energy in reducing air pollution is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By studying these sample essays and understanding the key elements that contribute to different band scores, you can improve your own writing skills.
For additional practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- Some people believe that governments should invest more in developing electric aircraft to reduce aviation emissions. Do you agree or disagree?
- To what extent do you agree that green buildings play a significant role in reducing urban heat and air pollution?
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of transitioning to electric vehicles as a means of reducing air pollution in cities.
Remember to focus on clear structure, relevant examples, and appropriate vocabulary. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
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