The topic of government regulations on industrial emissions has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past trends and current environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
**Some people think that governments should impose strict limits on industrial emissions to protect the environment. Others argue that this would harm economic growth. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.**
## Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
1. Discuss the viewpoint supporting government-imposed limits on industrial emissions
2. Explore the opposing argument that such limits could harm economic growth
3. Provide their own opinion on the matter
Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, followed by detailed analyses.
## Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Industrial emissions have become a contentious issue in recent years, with some advocating for **strict governmental regulations** to safeguard the environment, while others argue that such measures could **impede economic progress**. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of stringent emission controls argue that **government intervention** is crucial to protect our planet from further environmental degradation. They contend that industries, left unchecked, prioritize profits over environmental concerns, leading to increased pollution and accelerated climate change. By imposing strict limits, governments can **force companies to adopt cleaner technologies** and more sustainable practices, ultimately benefiting both the environment and public health.
On the other hand, opponents claim that **rigid emission regulations** could severely hamper economic growth. They argue that complying with strict standards would increase production costs, potentially leading to job losses, reduced competitiveness in global markets, and slower economic development. This perspective emphasizes the need for a **balanced approach** that doesn’t sacrifice economic prosperity for environmental protection.
In my opinion, while economic concerns are valid, the **long-term consequences of unchecked industrial emissions** far outweigh short-term economic gains. Governments should indeed impose limits on emissions, but these should be implemented **gradually and with support for industries** to adapt. By providing incentives for green technologies and helping businesses transition to more sustainable practices, governments can strike a balance between environmental protection and economic growth.
In conclusion, **government-imposed limits on industrial emissions** are necessary to address the urgent environmental challenges we face. However, these regulations should be implemented thoughtfully, considering both environmental and economic factors to ensure a sustainable future for all.
(Word count: 277)
### Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
1. **Clear structure**: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion.
2. **Cohesion and coherence**: Ideas flow smoothly with appropriate use of linking words and phrases.
3. **Lexical resource**: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, such as “contentious issue,” “impede economic progress,” and “environmental degradation.”
4. **Grammatical range and accuracy**: The writer demonstrates a command of complex sentence structures and a variety of grammatical forms.
5. **Task response**: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion.
## Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Many people believe that governments should put strict limits on industrial emissions to protect the environment. However, others think this could harm economic growth. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument.
Those who support government limits on emissions say it’s important for protecting our planet. They think that without these rules, companies will not care about the environment and will cause more pollution. This can lead to problems like global warming and health issues for people. When governments make strict rules, it forces companies to use cleaner ways of making things.
On the other hand, some people argue that strict limits on emissions can be bad for the economy. They say that following these rules can be expensive for companies, which might lead to job losses or higher prices for products. This could make it harder for countries to grow their economies and compete with other nations.
In my opinion, I think governments should put limits on industrial emissions, but they should do it carefully. They could start with small changes and give companies time to adjust. This way, we can protect the environment without causing too much harm to the economy. Governments could also help companies find cheaper ways to reduce pollution.
To conclude, while there are concerns about economic growth, I believe that protecting the environment is more important in the long run. Governments should find a balance between environmental protection and economic growth by implementing emission limits thoughtfully.
(Word count: 254)
### Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
1. **Task response**: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing an opinion. However, the ideas could be developed more fully.
2. **Coherence and cohesion**: The essay has a clear structure and uses basic linking words, but the cohesion could be improved with more sophisticated linking devices.
3. **Lexical resource**: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
4. **Grammatical range and accuracy**: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there’s less variety compared to higher band scores.
5. **Paragraphing**: The essay is properly paragraphed, which aids in organization and readability.
## Key Vocabulary to Remember
1. **Industrial emissions** (noun) – /ɪnˈdʌstriəl iˈmɪʃənz/ – Gases and particles released into the atmosphere by industrial processes
2. **Environmental degradation** (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdegrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources
3. **Economic growth** (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk grəʊθ/ – An increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time
4. **Stringent** (adjective) – /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – Strict, precise, and exacting
5. **Sustainability** (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
6. **Competitiveness** (noun) – /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – The quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
7. **Intervention** (noun) – /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – The action or process of intervening
8. **Incentive** (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – A thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something
## Conclusion
The topic of government regulation on industrial emissions is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
* The role of individuals vs. governments in environmental protection
* Balancing economic development with environmental concerns in developing countries
* The effectiveness of international agreements on climate change
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammar, and fully address all parts of the question. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
* [Why Governments Should Enforce Stricter Pollution Controls](https://www.ielts.net/why-governments-should-enforce-stricter-pollution-controls/)
* [The Importance of Government Intervention in Reducing Air Pollution](https://www.ielts.net/importance-of-government-intervention-in-reducing-air-pollution/)
* [The Role of Government Regulations in Protecting the Environment](https://www.ielts.net/the-role-of-government-regulations-in-protecting-the-environment/)