The topic of plastic bag bans has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past five years. This environmental issue particularly resonates with impact of plastic pollution on ocean health and continues to be relevant in today’s global context.
Environmental impact of plastic bags showing ocean pollution and wildlife effects
Recent IELTS Task 2 Question Analysis
Some people believe that plastic bags should be banned worldwide to protect the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
This question type requires candidates to present their position on a global plastic bag ban while supporting their arguments with relevant examples and reasoning. Let’s examine should single-use plastics be banned through multiple sample essays.
Band 8.5 Model Answer
In my opinion, I strongly agree that implementing a worldwide ban on plastic bags is essential for environmental protection. This stance is supported by compelling evidence of plastic pollution’s devastating impact and the availability of viable alternatives.
Firstly, plastic bags pose severe environmental threats. These non-biodegradable items persist in ecosystems for hundreds of years, causing irreparable damage to wildlife and marine environments. For instance, in India, thousands of cows die annually from ingesting plastic bags, while marine creatures often mistake them for food, leading to deaths and population decline. This environmental crisis has prompted many nations to take decisive action, with should governments enforce a global plastic ban to protect marine life? becoming a crucial policy consideration.
Moreover, successful plastic bag bans in various countries demonstrate the feasibility of such measures. Rwanda, for example, has maintained a strict plastic bag ban since 2008, resulting in noticeably cleaner cities and waterways. Similarly, Kenya’s 2017 ban has led to significant environmental improvements, proving that alternatives like reusable cloth bags can effectively replace plastic ones.
However, implementation must be gradual and well-planned. Governments should provide adequate transition periods for businesses and consumers while promoting affordable alternatives. This approach has worked effectively in countries like Bangladesh, where traditional jute bags have replaced plastic ones, supporting both environmental and economic objectives.
In conclusion, while the transition may present temporary challenges, the long-term benefits of a worldwide plastic bag ban far outweigh the initial inconveniences. The success stories from various nations prove that such a ban is not only necessary but entirely achievable.
Countries implementing successful plastic bag bans and their positive environmental outcomes
Band 6.5 Model Answer
I believe that banning plastic bags worldwide is a good idea because they cause many environmental problems. However, we need to think carefully about how to do this.
The main reason to ban plastic bags is that they harm the environment. When people throw away plastic bags, they end up in the ocean and kill many sea animals. Also, plastic bags take many years to break down and make our cities look dirty. As should there be a ban on plastic packaging globally becomes more urgent, we must consider immediate action.
Another problem is that plastic bags waste oil, which is used to make them. Instead, we can use cloth bags many times. In my country, some shops already charge money for plastic bags, and this helps people remember to bring their own bags.
However, some people say that banning plastic bags will make life difficult. Poor people might not be able to buy expensive cloth bags. Also, some businesses need plastic bags to pack their products. Therefore, governments should help people adjust to the change.
In conclusion, I agree that plastic bags should be banned, but governments must help people find other options. This will make the change easier for everyone.
Essay Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced perspective considering implementation challenges
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures with some errors
- Limited range of linking words
- Basic examples without detailed elaboration
- More personal tone
Key Vocabulary
- non-biodegradable (adj) /ˌnɒnbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – not capable of being decomposed
- irreparable (adj) /ɪˈrep(ə)rəbl/ – impossible to repair
- feasibility (n) /ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/ – possibility of being done
- transition period (n) /trænˈzɪʃ(ə)n ˈpɪəriəd/ – time of change
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃ(ə)n/ – the process of putting a plan into action
To practice your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. Future IELTS tests may feature similar questions about should single-use plastic be banned worldwide, so regular practice with environmental topics is highly recommended.
