IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Governments Ban Plastic Bags? (Sample Essays for Band 6-7 and 8-9)

The question of whether governments should ban plastic bags has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. This topic has appeared multiple times in recent years, reflecting its global relevance and importance. As environmental concerns continue to grow, it’s likely that this subject will remain a popular choice for future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a specific question related to this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that governments should ban disposable products, such as plastic bags and plastic bottles, to reduce waste. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question asks for your opinion on whether governments should prohibit the use of disposable products like plastic bags and bottles to minimize waste. It’s important to note that:

1. The question focuses on government action, not individual responsibility.
2. It specifically mentions plastic bags and bottles as examples of disposable products.
3. The aim of the ban is to reduce waste.
4. You need to express the extent of your agreement or disagreement with this proposal.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Environmental protection has become a pressing global concern, and the issue of plastic waste is at the forefront of this challenge. While some argue that governments should take drastic measures by banning disposable products such as plastic bags and bottles, I believe that a more nuanced approach is necessary.

Undoubtedly, the proliferation of single-use plastics has led to severe environmental consequences. Oceans are choking with plastic debris, landfills are overflowing, and wildlife is suffering from ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic waste. A government ban on these products could significantly reduce the amount of plastic entering our ecosystems. Moreover, such a ban would force consumers and businesses to seek out more sustainable alternatives, potentially spurring innovation in eco-friendly packaging and products.

However, an outright ban on all disposable plastics may be too simplistic and could have unintended negative consequences. Many industries, particularly food and healthcare, rely heavily on disposable plastic products for hygiene and safety reasons. A complete ban could lead to increased costs for businesses and consumers, and potentially compromise public health in some cases. Additionally, some plastic products, when properly recycled or disposed of, can have a lower overall environmental impact than their alternatives.

Instead of a blanket ban, I propose that governments should adopt a multi-faceted approach to tackle plastic waste. This could include:

1. Implementing a graduated tax on single-use plastics, making them progressively more expensive to discourage overuse.
2. Investing in improved recycling infrastructure and technologies to increase the rate of plastic recycling.
3. Encouraging and incentivizing businesses to develop and use biodegradable alternatives.
4. Launching comprehensive public education campaigns to raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic waste and promote responsible consumption.

By combining these strategies, governments can effectively reduce plastic waste while allowing for necessary uses of disposable products and promoting sustainable innovation. This balanced approach would likely be more effective and politically feasible than an outright ban.

In conclusion, while the intention behind banning disposable plastic products is commendable, I believe a more nuanced and comprehensive strategy would be more effective in addressing the plastic waste crisis. Governments should focus on a combination of economic incentives, technological innovation, and public education to create lasting change in our relationship with plastic.

(Word count: 374)

Plastic waste reduction strategies

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

The issue of plastic waste has become a major problem in recent years, and some people believe that governments should ban disposable products like plastic bags and bottles to reduce this waste. While I agree that action needs to be taken, I think a complete ban might be too extreme.

On one hand, banning plastic bags and bottles could have some positive effects. Firstly, it would immediately reduce the amount of plastic waste being produced. This could help to protect the environment, especially marine life which is often harmed by plastic pollution. Secondly, a ban would force people to use more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as reusable cloth bags and metal water bottles. This could help to change people’s habits and make them more aware of environmental issues.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. A sudden ban on all disposable plastic products could cause problems for businesses and consumers who rely on these items. For example, many food products are packaged in plastic for hygiene reasons, and finding alternatives could be expensive or difficult. Additionally, some people argue that plastic bags and bottles can be useful if they are recycled properly, and that the focus should be on improving recycling systems rather than banning products entirely.

In my opinion, a more balanced approach would be more effective. Instead of a complete ban, governments could introduce higher taxes on plastic bags and bottles to discourage their use. They could also invest in better recycling facilities and educate people about the importance of reducing plastic waste. This would allow for a gradual transition away from disposable plastics, giving businesses and consumers time to adapt.

In conclusion, while I agree that reducing plastic waste is important, I believe that a complete ban on disposable products like plastic bags and bottles would be too extreme. A combination of taxation, improved recycling, and education would be a more effective and realistic approach to tackling this problem.

(Word count: 309)

Key Points to Note When Writing

1. Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear four-paragraph structure: introduction, two body paragraphs (for and against), and conclusion. This is a safe and effective structure for IELTS Writing Task 2.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases, such as “nuanced approach,” “unintended negative consequences,” and “multi-faceted approach.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still incorporates some good phrases like “potential drawbacks” and “balanced approach.”

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and conditional statements. The Band 6-7 essay uses correct grammar but with simpler structures.

4. Ideas and Arguments: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments, considering multiple perspectives and offering specific solutions. The Band 6-7 essay presents valid points but with less depth and fewer specific examples.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of cohesive devices.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/: Rapid increase in the number or amount of something
2. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/: Characterized by subtle differences
3. Drastic (adjective) /ˈdræs.tɪk/: Extreme in effect or action
4. Entangled (adjective) /ɪnˈtæŋ.ɡəld/: Caught in or as if in a tangle
5. Spur (verb) /spɜːr/: To encourage an activity or development
6. Blanket (adjective) /ˈblæŋ.kɪt/: Covering everything; total
7. Multi-faceted (adjective) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/: Having many different aspects or features
8. Incentivize (verb) /ɪnˈsen.tɪ.vaɪz/: To encourage or motivate someone to do something
9. Feasible (adjective) /ˈfiː.zə.bəl/: Possible and practical to do easily or conveniently
10. Commendable (adjective) /kəˈmen.də.bəl/: Deserving praise

Conclusion

The topic of banning plastic bags and other disposable products is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that consider multiple perspectives and offer balanced arguments. Some related topics you might encounter could include:

• The role of individual responsibility vs. government action in environmental protection
• The economic impact of environmental regulations on businesses
• The effectiveness of recycling programs vs. product bans in reducing waste

Remember to always analyze the question carefully, plan your essay structure, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!