The topic of supermarkets reducing plastic packaging has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and environmental concerns, this issue is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a real IELTS question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.

Some people think that supermarkets should reduce the use of plastic packaging for the products they sell. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to express their opinion on whether supermarkets should decrease plastic packaging usage. Key points to consider:

1. The main topic is plastic packaging reduction in supermarkets.
2. It’s an opinion-based question asking for agreement or disagreement.
3. Candidates should discuss the extent of their agreement or disagreement.
4. Reasons and examples should support the chosen stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Plastic pollution has become a pressing global issue, and many argue that supermarkets should take responsibility by reducing plastic packaging. I strongly agree with this viewpoint and believe that supermarkets can play a crucial role in addressing this environmental challenge.

Firstly, supermarkets are major contributors to plastic waste due to their extensive use of packaging materials. By reducing plastic packaging, they can significantly decrease the overall plastic pollution in our ecosystems. For instance, many fruits and vegetables are unnecessarily wrapped in plastic when they have natural protective skins. Supermarkets could easily offer these items loose or in biodegradable bags, reducing plastic waste with government policies and consumer support.

Moreover, supermarkets have the power to influence both suppliers and consumers. By demanding less plastic packaging from their suppliers, they can drive change throughout the supply chain. Simultaneously, they can educate customers about the benefits of reduced packaging and encourage more sustainable shopping habits. For example, Tesco, a major UK supermarket chain, has implemented a “Remove, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” strategy, which has led to significant reductions in plastic use and increased customer awareness.

Critics may argue that reducing plastic packaging could lead to food waste or higher prices. However, innovative sustainable packaging solutions to reduce waste are constantly emerging, such as edible coatings for produce or reusable containers for dry goods. While these alternatives may initially be more expensive, increased demand and technological advancements will likely drive costs down over time.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that supermarkets should take decisive action to reduce plastic packaging. The potential environmental benefits far outweigh the challenges, and supermarkets are uniquely positioned to drive positive change in consumer behavior and industry practices. By embracing this responsibility, supermarkets can contribute significantly to a more sustainable future.

(Word count: 309)

Supermarket implementing plastic packaging reduction strategies

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Plastic pollution is a big problem today, and some people think supermarkets should use less plastic packaging. I agree with this idea because it can help the environment, but I also think there are some challenges to consider.

One reason why supermarkets should reduce plastic packaging is that it can help protect the environment. Plastic takes a long time to break down and often ends up in oceans and landfills, harming animals and polluting the earth. If supermarkets use less plastic, it can make a big difference because they sell so many products. For example, they could sell fruits and vegetables without plastic wrapping, which would reduce a lot of waste.

Another benefit of reducing plastic packaging is that it can make customers more aware of environmental issues. When people see supermarkets making an effort to be eco-friendly, they might think more about their own plastic use and try to reduce it. This could lead to a bigger change in society’s habits.

However, there are some problems with reducing plastic packaging. Some foods might not stay fresh as long without plastic, which could lead to more food waste. Also, alternative packaging materials might be more expensive, which could make prices go up for customers. These are important things for supermarkets to think about.

In conclusion, I believe supermarkets should try to reduce plastic packaging, but they need to do it carefully. They should find ways to keep food fresh and affordable while also being more environmentally friendly. It’s a difficult balance, but it’s important for the future of our planet.

(Word count: 268)

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, many people worry about plastic pollution and want supermarkets to use less plastic packaging. I think this is a good idea, but it’s not easy to do.

Firstly, using less plastic in supermarkets can help the environment. Plastic is bad for animals and nature because it doesn’t disappear for a long time. If supermarkets stop using so much plastic, it can make a big difference. For example, they can sell fruits without plastic bags.

Also, when supermarkets use less plastic, customers might learn to use less plastic too. This is good because everyone needs to help stop pollution. Maybe people will bring their own bags to the supermarket instead of using plastic ones.

But there are some problems with this idea. Some food might go bad faster without plastic packaging. This means more food might be wasted, which is also bad for the environment. Another problem is that other types of packaging might cost more money, so prices in supermarkets might go up.

In conclusion, I think supermarkets should try to use less plastic, but they need to be careful. They should find ways to keep food fresh and not too expensive. It’s not an easy problem to solve, but it’s important to try.

(Word count: 194)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. Key strengths include:

1. Clear position with a well-developed argument
2. Logical structure with each paragraph focusing on a main idea
3. Wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures
4. Relevant examples and specific details to support arguments
5. Consideration of counterarguments
6. Strong conclusion that reinforces the main points

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows a good understanding of the topic and adequate writing skills. Characteristics include:

1. Clear position with some development of ideas
2. Logical structure, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay
3. Adequate vocabulary with some attempt at more complex expressions
4. Some examples provided, though less specific than the higher band essay
5. Basic consideration of different aspects of the issue
6. Conclusion that summarizes the main points

Band 5-6 Essay:

This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the topic with limited writing skills. Features include:

1. Position stated but with limited development
2. Simple structure with basic paragraphing
3. Limited vocabulary with some repetition
4. Few examples, mostly general in nature
5. Basic discussion of the issue without much depth
6. Simple conclusion restating the main ideas

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Plastic pollution (noun) /ˈplæstɪk pəˈluːʃən/ – Environmental contamination by plastic materials
2. Biodegradable (adjective) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms
3. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
4. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
5. Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – Featuring new methods; advanced and original
6. Decisive (adjective) /dɪˈsaɪsɪv/ – Settling an issue; producing a definite result
7. Landfill (noun) /ˈlændfɪl/ – A site for the disposal of waste materials by burial
8. Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
9. Alternative (noun/adjective) /ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/ – Available as another possibility or choice
10. Waste (noun/verb) /weɪst/ – Unwanted or unusable material; use or expend carelessly

Conclusion

The topic of reducing plastic packaging in supermarkets is highly relevant to current environmental concerns and is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare for similar questions, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of businesses in environmental protection
2. Government regulations on plastic use
3. Individual responsibility in reducing plastic waste
4. Balancing environmental concerns with economic factors

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and complex sentences, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.