The fashion industry regulation topic has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing multiple times between 2019-2023. With growing concerns about Fashion industry’s environmental impact, this theme will likely continue appearing in future tests. Let’s examine one common question type on this topic.
Some people believe that the fashion industry should be more strictly regulated to reduce its negative impact on the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to express their opinion on whether stricter regulations should be imposed on the fashion industry specifically to address environmental concerns. Key aspects to consider include:
- Current environmental impacts
- Potential benefits and drawbacks of regulation
- Alternative solutions
- Implementation challenges
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The Fast fashion and its environmental footprint has become increasingly concerning, and I strongly agree that stricter regulations are necessary to mitigate its detrimental environmental effects.
Firstly, the fashion industry’s current practices are causing severe environmental degradation. Fast fashion companies often prioritize profit over environmental responsibility, resulting in excessive water pollution, chemical waste, and carbon emissions. For instance, textile dyeing is the second largest polluter of clean water globally, while fashion production contributes to 10% of humanity’s carbon emissions. Without proper regulation, these companies have little incentive to adopt more sustainable practices.
Moreover, stricter regulations could effectively drive innovation in sustainable manufacturing. When faced with environmental standards, fashion companies would be compelled to invest in eco-friendly materials and processes. This has been demonstrated in other industries where regulatory pressure has led to technological advancements and improved environmental outcomes. The automotive industry’s shift toward electric vehicles due to emissions regulations serves as a compelling parallel.
However, implementation must be carefully considered to ensure effectiveness. Regulations should be gradually introduced to allow businesses to adapt while maintaining economic viability. This could include mandatory recycling programs, limits on harmful chemical usage, and requirements for sustainable material sourcing. Additionally, international cooperation would be crucial to prevent companies from simply relocating to regions with laxer environmental standards.
In conclusion, while implementing stricter regulations presents challenges, it is essential for addressing the impact of fast fashion on environmental sustainability. The potential benefits far outweigh the temporary difficulties of adaptation.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that the fashion industry needs more rules to protect the environment because it causes many problems.
The main reason is that fashion companies make too much pollution. They use lots of water and chemicals to make clothes, which is bad for nature. Also, many clothes are thrown away quickly because of fast fashion, creating more waste in landfills. Without strict rules, companies will continue these harmful practices.
Another point is that rules can make companies use better methods. If they must follow environmental laws, they will find new ways to make clothes that don’t harm nature so much. For example, they might use recycled materials or safer chemicals. This would be good for the environment.
However, making new rules might be difficult. Some companies might not want to change because it costs more money. Also, if only some countries have strict rules, companies might move to other places where rules are easier. This could make the problem worse.
In conclusion, I think more rules are needed for the fashion industry, but they should be fair and work well. This would help protect the environment for the future.
Implementing sustainable practices in fashion industry through regulations
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear position with well-developed arguments
- Excellent paragraph organization
- Relevant examples and explanations
- Coherent ideas with smooth transitions
- Advanced grammatical accuracy
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but mostly accurate grammar
- Main ideas present but less developed
- Basic organizational structure
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Some repetition in expression
Key Vocabulary
- Environmental degradation (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The deterioration of the environment
- Sustainable practices (n) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – Methods that don’t harm the environment
- Mitigate (v) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe or serious
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – The process of putting a plan into action
- Eco-friendly (adj) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
For practice, try writing your own essay on sustainable fashion and reducing environmental harm. Share your response in the comments for feedback from fellow learners.
