Plastic bag pollution has become a pressing environmental issue worldwide, prompting discussions about potential solutions. One frequently debated topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations is whether governments should ban plastic bags and promote eco-friendly alternatives. This essay question has appeared multiple times in past IELTS tests and is likely to continue being a relevant topic in future exams due to its global significance.
Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, providing valuable insights for IELTS candidates preparing for the Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Essay Question
Some people think that governments should ban disposable plastic products (such as plastic bags) to reduce waste. Others believe that people should be free to choose what products they use. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on the issue of plastic bag usage:
- Governments should ban disposable plastic products to reduce waste.
- People should have the freedom to choose their products.
The task requires candidates to discuss both perspectives and provide their own opinion. This type of question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, which is common in IELTS Writing Task 2.
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Sample
The proliferation of plastic waste has become a global environmental crisis, prompting debates on whether governments should intervene by banning disposable plastic products or allow individuals to make their own choices. While both arguments have merit, I believe that a balanced approach combining governmental regulation and public education is the most effective solution.
Proponents of government intervention argue that banning disposable plastics, particularly single-use plastic bags, is necessary to combat the growing environmental threat. Plastic pollution has reached alarming levels, contaminating oceans, harming wildlife, and contributing to climate change. By implementing bans, governments can significantly reduce plastic waste and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. For instance, countries like Rwanda and Kenya have successfully implemented plastic bag bans, resulting in cleaner environments and increased use of reusable bags.
On the other hand, those who advocate for individual choice contend that people should have the freedom to decide which products they use. They argue that bans infringe on personal liberties and may cause inconvenience to consumers who rely on plastic bags for various purposes. Furthermore, they assert that education and voluntary initiatives can be more effective in changing behavior than top-down regulations. This perspective emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and consumer-driven market changes.
In my opinion, a comprehensive approach that combines elements of both arguments is the most effective way to address the plastic waste issue. Governments should implement gradual restrictions on single-use plastics while simultaneously investing in public education campaigns and incentives for eco-friendly alternatives. This balanced strategy would allow for a smoother transition away from disposable plastics without abruptly disrupting consumer habits. Additionally, promoting innovation in sustainable materials and packaging can create economic opportunities while addressing environmental concerns.
In conclusion, while the debate between government intervention and individual choice in plastic use continues, a nuanced approach that incorporates both perspectives is likely to yield the best results. By combining regulations, education, and incentives, societies can work towards reducing plastic waste while respecting consumer needs and fostering environmental responsibility.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Essay Sample
The issue of plastic waste has become a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should ban plastic bags and other disposable plastic items to reduce waste. However, others believe that people should be free to choose what products they want to use. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support banning plastic bags say it’s necessary to protect the environment. Plastic pollution is causing a lot of damage to nature, especially in the oceans where animals can eat plastic and die. When governments ban plastic bags, it forces people to use alternatives like reusable bags, which are better for the environment. For example, some countries have already banned plastic bags and have seen good results, with less litter in their cities and beaches.
On the other hand, people who are against banning plastic bags think it’s not fair to take away people’s choices. They argue that plastic bags are convenient and useful for many things, like carrying groceries or keeping food fresh. They also say that banning plastic bags can cause problems for businesses and might make some things more expensive. Instead of banning plastic, they think it’s better to educate people about recycling and proper disposal.
In my opinion, I think a mix of both approaches is the best way to solve this problem. Governments should make some rules to reduce plastic use, but not ban everything at once. They should also teach people about the problems of plastic waste and encourage them to use eco-friendly products. This way, people can slowly change their habits without feeling forced.
To conclude, while there are good arguments on both sides of this issue, I believe a balanced approach that includes some regulations and lots of education is the best solution to the plastic waste problem.
(Word count: 298)
Band 5-6 Essay Sample
Nowadays, plastic waste is a big problem in many places. Some people think the government should stop people from using plastic bags and other plastic things that we throw away. But other people think we should be able to choose what we want to use. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who want to ban plastic bags say it’s good for the environment. There is too much plastic in the world and it hurts animals and makes places dirty. If the government says no to plastic bags, people will have to use other bags that are better for nature. Some countries already did this and their cities are cleaner now.
But some people don’t like this idea. They say we should be free to choose what we want to use. Plastic bags are easy to use and helpful for many things. They also think that if plastic bags are not allowed, some things might cost more money. These people think it’s better to teach people how to use less plastic and recycle more.
I think both sides have good points. Maybe the best way is to do both things a little bit. The government can make some rules about using less plastic, but not stop everything at once. They can also teach people why plastic is bad and show them how to use other things instead. This way, people can change slowly and not feel like they are being forced.
In conclusion, I think the government should make some rules about plastic, but also teach people about the problem. This way, we can help the environment but still let people make their own choices sometimes.
(Word count: 267)
IELTS Writing Task 2 Plastic Bags
Explaining the Score Differences
The three sample essays above demonstrate different levels of writing proficiency, corresponding to different IELTS band scores. Here’s a breakdown of why each essay received its respective score:
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Coherent with skillful use of cohesive devices
- Provides relevant, extended, and well-supported ideas
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a clear overall position
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information and ideas coherently and uses a range of cohesive devices
- Offers relevant ideas but some may be less fully explained
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempts at complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntərˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
- Contaminating (verb) – /kənˈtæmɪneɪtɪŋ/ – making something impure by exposure to or addition of a poisonous or polluting substance
- Infringe (verb) – /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – actively break the terms of (a law, agreement, etc.)
- Incentives (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪvz/ – things that motivate or encourage someone to do something
- Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːənst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Comprehensive (adjective) – /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
Conclusion
The topic of government intervention in plastic bag usage remains a relevant and important issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying these sample essays and understanding the scoring criteria, candidates can better prepare for similar questions in their exams. Remember to practice writing essays on this topic and other related environmental issues to improve your skills.
For additional practice, consider writing essays on these potential future topics:
- Should governments impose taxes on single-use plastics?
- Is individual responsibility or corporate regulation more effective in reducing plastic waste?
- How can developed nations support developing countries in transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives?
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.