IELTS Writing Task 2 often addresses contemporary global issues, and the topic of carbon emissions has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. This article will explore a common question regarding government action on carbon emissions, providing sample essays for different band scores and in-depth analysis to help you improve your IELTS writing skills.

Analyzing the Topic: Carbon Emission Laws

The question of whether governments should introduce stricter laws on carbon emissions is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic falls under the broader category of environmental issues and reflects growing global concern about climate change. Based on trends observed in past IELTS exams and the increasing urgency of climate action, we can expect this topic to remain relevant in future tests.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Carbon Emissions

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

Some people believe that governments should introduce stricter laws on carbon emissions to combat climate change. Others argue that individual actions are more effective in reducing carbon footprints. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should introduce stricter laws on carbon emissions.
2. Explore the opposing view that individual actions are more effective in reducing carbon footprints.
3. Provide their own opinion on which approach is more effective.

Key points to consider:

• The role of government legislation in reducing carbon emissions
• The impact of individual actions on carbon footprints
• The potential effectiveness of each approach
• The balance between governmental and individual responsibility

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

Climate change is undeniably one of the most pressing issues of our time, and the debate over the most effective means to combat it has intensified in recent years. While some advocate for stricter governmental regulations on carbon emissions, others argue that individual actions are more impactful. In my opinion, a combination of both approaches is necessary to address this complex global challenge effectively.

Proponents of stricter government laws argue that large-scale change can only be achieved through top-down policies. They contend that by implementing and enforcing stringent regulations on industries and businesses, governments can significantly reduce a nation’s overall carbon emissions. For instance, the introduction of carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems can incentivize companies to adopt cleaner technologies and practices. Moreover, governments have the power to invest in renewable energy infrastructure and set national targets for emission reductions, which can drive widespread change across sectors.

On the other hand, those who prioritize individual actions believe that lasting change starts at the grassroots level. They argue that personal choices, such as using public transportation, reducing meat consumption, or opting for energy-efficient appliances, can collectively make a substantial impact on carbon footprints. This perspective emphasizes the power of consumer demand in shaping market trends and corporate behavior. Furthermore, advocates of this approach suggest that individual awareness and action can lead to a cultural shift towards more sustainable lifestyles, which can be more enduring than imposed regulations.

In my view, the most effective strategy to combat climate change involves a synergy between governmental policies and individual actions. Strict laws on carbon emissions are crucial for setting the framework and standards for national and global reductions. These regulations can create a level playing field for businesses and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. Simultaneously, individual actions are vital for fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and driving demand for sustainable products and services. The combination of top-down policies and bottom-up initiatives can create a powerful momentum for change.

In conclusion, while both governmental regulations and individual actions have their merits in reducing carbon emissions, neither is sufficient on its own. A comprehensive approach that leverages the strengths of both strategies is essential for effectively addressing the complex challenge of climate change. By aligning legislative efforts with personal commitments, we can work towards a more sustainable future for our planet.

(Word count: 369)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

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 (“On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “Furthermore”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (“incentivize”, “stringent regulations”, “grassroots level”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (“while some advocate for”, “by implementing and enforcing”).

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

Nowadays, climate change is a big problem, and people have different ideas about how to solve it. Some think the government should make stricter laws about carbon emissions, while others believe individual actions are more important. I think both ways are necessary to fight climate change.

People who support stricter laws say that the government can make big changes happen faster. For example, they can make companies pay more taxes if they pollute too much, which might make these companies use cleaner energy. Also, governments can spend money on things like solar panels and wind turbines to produce clean electricity for everyone. This can help reduce carbon emissions from a whole country.

On the other hand, some people think individual actions are more effective. They say that if everyone does small things like using public transport, eating less meat, or turning off lights when not needed, it can add up to a big difference. When many people choose to buy eco-friendly products, it can also make companies change their ways to be more environmentally friendly.

In my opinion, we need both government laws and individual actions to really make a difference. Governments can set rules that everyone has to follow, which can lead to big changes quickly. But individual actions are also important because they show that people care about the environment and are willing to make changes in their daily lives. If both the government and individuals work together, we have a better chance of solving the problem of climate change.

To conclude, while some people think government laws are more important and others think individual actions are better, I believe we need both. Climate change is a big problem that needs everyone to work together to solve it. By having strict laws and encouraging people to make eco-friendly choices, we can hope to reduce carbon emissions and protect our planet for the future.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but has room for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear position.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (“On the other hand”, “Also”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied compared to the Band 8-9 essay (“big problem”, “make changes”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the development is less thorough than in the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Carbon emissions (noun) – /ˈkɑːrbən ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

2. Climate change (noun) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term alterations in global weather patterns.

3. Stringent (adjective) – /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – Strict, precise, and exacting.

4. Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – To motivate or encourage someone to do something.

5. Cap-and-trade (noun) – /kæp ənd treɪd/ – A system that sets a limit on emissions and allows companies to trade emission allowances.

6. Grassroots (adjective) – /ˈɡræsruːts/ – Of or relating to the common people, especially as contrasted with leadership.

7. Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnərdʒi/ – The interaction of elements that, when combined, produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual elements.

8. Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkoʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment.

9. Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnuːəbəl ˈenərdʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.

10. Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of one’s activities.

Conclusion

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

• The role of international cooperation in addressing climate change
• The impact of technological innovations on reducing carbon emissions
• The balance between economic growth and environmental protection

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding how to structure your arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and develop your ideas coherently. We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.

For more insights on environmental topics in IELTS, you might find it helpful to read about the importance of environmental conservation in urban areas and the role of governments in regulating environmental pollution.