Recycling and environmental protection have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams, questions about mandatory recycling appear approximately once every 3-4 months, particularly in countries with growing environmental concerns like China and India. Let’s examine why recycling is important for the environment through some sample essays.
Household waste sorting and recycling practices showing different colored bins
Task Analysis
Some people believe that recycling household waste should be mandatory by law, while others think it should be a personal choice. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussing arguments for mandatory recycling
- Examining reasons for keeping recycling voluntary
- Providing a clear personal stance
- Supporting ideas with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Environmental protection through Should governments enforce mandatory recycling programs? has become a critical debate in many societies. While some advocate for legally enforced recycling, others maintain it should remain voluntary. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my view.
Those supporting mandatory recycling argue that environmental protection cannot be left to individual choice. They contend that without legal enforcement, many households would choose convenience over responsibility, leading to increased landfill waste and environmental degradation. Japan’s successful mandatory recycling program, which has achieved a recycling rate of over 80%, demonstrates how legal requirements can effectively change behavior and benefit the environment.
Conversely, opponents believe recycling should remain voluntary, emphasizing personal freedom and responsibility. They argue that forced compliance might breed resentment and result in poor-quality recycling efforts. Additionally, they highlight that education and incentives could be more effective in fostering genuine environmental consciousness than punitive measures.
In my opinion, while personal choice is important, the urgency of environmental protection necessitates mandatory recycling. The success of countries like South Korea and Germany, where strict recycling laws have dramatically reduced waste, proves that legal requirements can create positive environmental outcomes. However, this should be combined with comprehensive education and adequate infrastructure to ensure effective implementation.
Therefore, I believe mandatory recycling, supported by proper education and facilities, represents the most effective approach to addressing our waste management challenges.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, some people think recycling should be required by law, while others believe it should be up to individuals. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, making recycling mandatory has some benefits. First, it will make sure everyone participates in protecting the environment. For example, in my city, when recycling became required, more people started separating their trash. Second, it helps reduce pollution and save resources. Many materials like plastic and paper can be reused instead of making new ones.
However, other people think recycling should be voluntary. They say forcing people to recycle might make them angry and not want to do it properly. Also, some areas don’t have good recycling facilities, so it would be unfair to require it. For example, in rural areas, there might not be enough recycling bins or collection services.
In my opinion, recycling should be mandatory because the environment is very important. However, the government should also provide good facilities and teach people how to recycle correctly. This will make the program more successful.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear, logical organization
- Relevant examples and specific details
- Balanced discussion with clear position
- Coherent paragraphing and smooth transitions
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization present
- Some examples provided
- Position stated but less developed
- Basic linking words used
Key Vocabulary
- mandatory (adj) /ˈmændətɔːri/ – required by law
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
- compliance (n) /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – the action of following rules
- degradation (n) /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – the process of becoming worse
- incentives (n) /ɪnˈsentɪvz/ – something that encourages a particular action
- punitive (adj) /ˈpjuːnətɪv/ – intended as punishment
In conclusion, this topic remains relevant for future IELTS tests. Practice writing essays on related topics like:
- Should businesses be fined for not recycling?
- Should governments provide incentives for household recycling?
- Is individual action or government regulation more effective in environmental protection?
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
