Plastic packaging has been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this environmental issue has appeared approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates to prepare for.
Let’s examine one recent question that has appeared in the actual IELTS test:
Some people believe that plastic packaging should be banned completely to reduce environmental damage. Others think there are more effective ways to tackle plastic pollution. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Environmental impact of plastic packaging shown through pollution and alternatives
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for completely banning plastic packaging
- Explore alternative solutions to plastic pollution
- Present and justify their own perspective
- Maintain a balanced discussion while clearly stating their position
For deeper context on this topic, you may want to explore the advantages and disadvantages of banning plastic packaging.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
The proliferation of plastic packaging has become a major environmental concern, leading some to advocate for its complete prohibition. While I understand this perspective, I believe that more nuanced approaches would be more effective in addressing plastic pollution.
Those supporting an outright ban argue that it would force immediate action in reducing plastic waste. They point to how plastic packaging contributes to ocean pollution, endangering marine life and entering our food chain. The impact of plastic pollution on ocean health has been devastating, with millions of tons of plastic waste entering our oceans annually.
However, alternative approaches may prove more practical and effective. Implementing graduated reduction targets, combined with investment in recycling infrastructure and biodegradable alternatives, could achieve sustainable change without economic disruption. Furthermore, innovative solutions like improved recycling technologies and development of eco-friendly materials offer promising alternatives to an outright ban.
In my opinion, while the intention behind a complete ban is admirable, a more comprehensive approach would be more effective. This could include stricter regulations on unnecessary packaging, incentives for eco-friendly alternatives, and improved recycling systems. Such measures would address the environmental concerns while considering practical limitations and economic impacts.
Various sustainable packaging solutions and implementation strategies
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people think plastic packaging should be banned to protect the environment. While some support this idea, others believe there are better solutions. I will discuss both views and share my opinion.
On one side, people want to ban plastic packaging because it causes pollution. When plastic is thrown away, it stays in the environment for many years and hurts animals. Also, it makes our cities look dirty and creates health problems. For information about worldwide initiatives, see should plastic bags be banned worldwide.
However, other people think there are better ways to solve this problem. They say we can use better recycling systems and make people pay for plastic bags. Also, companies can make packaging that is better for the environment. These solutions might work better than a complete ban.
In my opinion, we need different solutions working together. A complete ban might be too difficult to implement quickly, but we can reduce plastic use gradually while developing better alternatives. Education and recycling programs are also important.
Key Vocabulary
- proliferation (n) /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
- biodegradable (adj) /ˌbaɪ.əʊ.dɪˈɡreɪ.də.bəl/ – capable of decomposing naturally
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ – basic systems and services
To practice your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. For additional preparation, you might want to explore Plastic pollution and alternatives and consider how different countries are addressing this issue.
