IELTS Writing Task 2: Expert Sample Essays on Environmental Pollution Penalties

Environmental pollution has become a pressing global issue, and the question of whether governments should impose stricter penalties for polluters frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic’s relevance to current environmental challenges makes it a popular choice for examiners, with an estimated 15-20% chance of appearing in future tests. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays and in-depth analysis.

Analyzing the Task 2 Question

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that governments should impose stricter penalties on companies and individuals who pollute the environment. Others argue that education and incentives are more effective in reducing pollution. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that stricter penalties should be imposed on polluters
2. Discuss the alternative view that education and incentives are more effective
3. Provide your own opinion on the issue

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, followed by detailed analyses.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

In recent years, the debate on how to combat environmental pollution has intensified, with some advocating for harsher penalties while others favor educational approaches and incentives. Both strategies have their merits, but I believe a balanced combination of the two is the most effective solution.

Those who support stricter penalties argue that financial disincentives are necessary to deter companies and individuals from polluting. They contend that substantial fines or legal consequences would force polluters to reconsider their actions and invest in cleaner technologies or practices. For instance, when Singapore implemented hefty fines for littering, it saw a significant reduction in public waste. This approach can be particularly effective for large corporations that might otherwise view minor fines as an acceptable cost of doing business.

On the other hand, proponents of education and incentives argue that lasting change comes from understanding and motivation rather than fear of punishment. They suggest that by educating the public about the impacts of pollution and offering incentives for environmentally friendly practices, governments can foster a culture of environmental responsibility. For example, Japan’s successful recycling programs are largely due to extensive public education campaigns and convenient recycling systems, rather than punitive measures.

In my opinion, the most effective approach combines elements of both strategies. Strict penalties serve as a deterrent and ensure that there are consequences for egregious violations, while education and incentives create a positive framework for environmental stewardship. Governments should implement a tiered system of penalties that escalate for repeat offenders or severe pollution incidents, coupled with robust educational programs and financial incentives for adopting green technologies.

Image of a successful anti-littering campaign in Singapore

Moreover, this combined approach addresses the root causes of pollution more comprehensively. Penalties alone may lead to resentment or attempts to circumvent regulations, while education without consequences may lack the urgency needed to drive immediate action. By balancing these methods, governments can create a more holistic and sustainable environmental policy.

In conclusion, while both stricter penalties and educational approaches have their strengths, a nuanced strategy that incorporates both is likely to be most effective in combating environmental pollution. This balanced approach ensures immediate deterrence while fostering long-term environmental consciousness and innovation.

(Word count: 345)

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “In conclusion”).
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “deterrent”, “egregious violations”, “environmental stewardship”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of complex structures accurately (e.g., “Those who support stricter penalties argue that…”, “By balancing these methods, governments can create…”).
5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

Environmental pollution is a big problem today, and people have different ideas about how to solve it. Some think governments should give harder punishments to polluters, while others believe education and rewards work better. I think both ways are important, but education might be more effective in the long run.

People who want stricter penalties say that companies and individuals will only stop polluting if they are afraid of big fines or going to jail. They think this will make polluters change their ways quickly. For example, if a factory knows it will have to pay millions of dollars for dumping chemicals in a river, it might decide to use cleaner methods instead.

On the other hand, those who prefer education and incentives believe that teaching people about the environment and giving them reasons to be eco-friendly is better. They say that if people understand why pollution is bad and how they can help, they will want to change on their own. Also, if governments give tax breaks or other benefits to companies that use green technology, more businesses will choose to be environmentally friendly.

A visual representation of Japan's successful recycling program

In my opinion, both approaches have good points, but I think education and incentives are slightly more important. Punishments can stop pollution quickly, but they don’t always change people’s attitudes. If people only avoid polluting because they’re scared of getting in trouble, they might not really care about the environment. But if they learn about the problems pollution causes and are rewarded for being green, they’re more likely to make long-lasting changes.

However, I don’t think we should completely ignore penalties. Maybe a mix of both strategies would work best. Governments could start with education and incentives, but also have some penalties ready for those who still refuse to follow the rules.

To conclude, while stricter penalties can be useful, I believe focusing more on education and incentives is the better way to reduce pollution in the long term. This approach can create a society that truly cares about protecting the environment.

(Word count: 329)

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates good qualities that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion of each view is less developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but uses simpler linking words (e.g., “On the other hand”, “However”).
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay (e.g., “big problem”, “harder punishments”, “eco-friendly”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some minor errors that do not impede communication.
5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are supported with examples, but they are less specific and detailed compared to the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary for This Topic

Here are some useful vocabulary items related to environmental pollution and government policies:

1. Stringent regulations (noun phrase) – /ˈstrɪndʒənt ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃənz/ – Very strict rules or laws
2. Deterrent (noun) – /dɪˈterənt/ – Something that discourages or prevents an action
3. Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – To motivate or encourage someone to do something
4. Corporate responsibility (noun phrase) – /ˈkɔːpərət rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – The idea that companies should act in ways that benefit society
5. Sustainable practices (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – Methods of operating that don’t harm the environment
6. Environmental stewardship (noun phrase) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ – The responsible use and protection of the natural environment
7. Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
8. Polluter pays principle (noun phrase) – /pəˈluːtə peɪz ˈprɪnsəpl/ – The idea that those who produce pollution should bear the costs of managing it
9. Green technology (noun phrase) – /ɡriːn tekˈnɒlədʒi/ – Technology that is environmentally friendly
10. Carbon footprint (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of one’s activities

Conclusion

The topic of government penalties for environmental pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of individual responsibility in environmental protection
• Balancing economic growth with environmental conservation
• The effectiveness of international agreements in addressing global pollution

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills.

For more insights on environmental topics in IELTS, you might find these related articles helpful:

• Why Governments Should Enforce Stricter Pollution Controls
• Should Governments Impose Stricter Laws to Protect Endangered Species?
• How to Address the Challenges of Water Pollution in Industrial Areas

These resources can provide additional perspectives and vocabulary to enhance your essay writing on environmental themes.