Climate change is a pressing global issue that requires collective action from nations worldwide. One proposed solution is the implementation of a global tax to combat climate change. This topic has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions several times in recent years, and its relevance is likely to increase in the future. Let’s examine a sample question and explore how to approach this topic effectively.
Some people believe that there should be a global tax to combat climate change. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on the implementation of a global tax to address climate change. It’s essential to:
- Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
- Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Conclude with a summary of your main points
Now, let’s look at three sample essays of varying band scores to illustrate different approaches to this question.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 9)
Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most pressing issues facing our planet today, and the idea of a global tax to combat it has gained traction in recent years. I strongly agree that such a measure should be implemented, as it offers a practical and potentially effective solution to address this global crisis.
Firstly, a global tax on carbon emissions would create a powerful financial incentive for countries and industries to reduce their carbon footprint. By making it more expensive to pollute, this tax would encourage the development and adoption of cleaner technologies and more sustainable practices. For instance, companies might invest more in renewable energy sources or improve their energy efficiency to avoid hefty tax payments. This shift could lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale.
Moreover, the revenue generated from this tax could be channeled into climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts worldwide. These funds could be used to finance research and development of green technologies, support vulnerable communities affected by climate change, and fund large-scale environmental projects. For example, the money could be invested in reforestation initiatives or in developing infrastructure to protect coastal areas from rising sea levels. This approach ensures that the tax not only discourages harmful practices but also actively contributes to solutions.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that implementing such a tax would face significant challenges. There would need to be a global consensus on the tax rate, collection methods, and distribution of funds. Additionally, measures would need to be put in place to ensure that developing countries are not disproportionately affected. These challenges, while substantial, are not insurmountable and could be addressed through careful planning and international cooperation.
In conclusion, while the implementation of a global tax to combat climate change would be complex, I believe it is a necessary and potentially transformative step. By creating economic incentives for reducing emissions and generating funds for climate action, this approach could play a crucial role in our collective efforts to address the climate crisis. The challenges involved should not deter us from pursuing this solution, as the potential benefits for our planet and future generations far outweigh the difficulties of implementation.
(Word count: 345)
Explanation of Band 9 Score
This essay demonstrates all the qualities of a Band 9 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with fully extended and well-supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy.
The role of international organizations in addressing climate change is crucial in implementing such global initiatives. These organizations can facilitate discussions and agreements between nations, ensuring a fair and effective implementation of a global tax system.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7)
In recent years, the idea of a global tax to fight climate change has been discussed by many experts. I partially agree with this proposal, as it has both advantages and disadvantages that need to be carefully considered.
On one hand, a global tax could be an effective way to reduce carbon emissions. If all countries had to pay a tax based on their pollution levels, it would encourage them to find cleaner ways of producing energy and goods. For example, companies might invest more in solar or wind power to avoid paying high taxes on fossil fuels. This could lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gases worldwide.
Additionally, the money collected from this tax could be used to fund important environmental projects. Governments could use this money to protect forests, clean up oceans, or develop new green technologies. This would help to address climate change on multiple fronts and could have a positive impact on the environment.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to this idea. One major concern is that a global tax might be unfair to developing countries. These nations often rely on cheaper, more polluting industries to grow their economies. A high tax could slow down their development and make it harder for them to compete globally. It’s important to find a balance that allows for economic growth while still protecting the environment.
Another issue is the difficulty of implementing such a tax on a global scale. It would require cooperation from all countries, which is often challenging in international politics. There might be disagreements about how much tax should be paid, how it should be collected, and how the money should be used.
In conclusion, while a global tax to combat climate change has potential benefits, it also comes with significant challenges. I believe that it could be a useful tool if implemented carefully, but it should be part of a broader strategy that includes other measures to protect the environment and support sustainable development in all countries.
(Word count: 320)
Explanation of Band 7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 7 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with relevant main ideas. However, some points could be more fully extended.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, and paragraphing is generally well-managed. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, with some less common items used. There are occasional errors in word choice or collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures is used with good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Should governments subsidize public transport to promote environmental conservation? This is another approach that could complement a global tax system in addressing climate change.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 6)
Nowadays, climate change is a big problem in the world. Some people think there should be a global tax to help fix this problem. I agree with this idea because I think it can help reduce pollution and save the environment.
First, if there is a global tax, countries will try to pollute less. This is because they don’t want to pay a lot of money for the tax. For example, factories might use cleaner energy like solar power instead of coal. This can help reduce the amount of harmful gases in the air.
Also, the money from the tax can be used for good things. Governments can use it to plant more trees or clean up the oceans. This is important because trees help clean the air, and clean oceans are better for animals and people.
However, there are some problems with this idea too. Some poor countries might find it hard to pay the tax. They need to use cheaper ways to make things, which sometimes cause more pollution. It’s not fair if they have to pay a lot of money when they are trying to grow their economy.
Another problem is that it might be hard to make all countries agree to this tax. Some countries might not want to pay it, or they might argue about how much they should pay. This could make it difficult to start the tax.
In conclusion, I think a global tax for climate change is a good idea, but it has some problems too. It can help reduce pollution and give money for environmental projects. But we need to think about how to make it fair for all countries and how to get everyone to agree to it.
(Word count: 276)
Explanation of Band 6 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task and presents a relevant position. However, the supporting ideas are often underdeveloped.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall structure, but paragraphing is not always logical. Basic cohesive devices are used, but coherence may be faulty or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: There is an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, but usage is sometimes inaccurate. There is some attempt at using less common vocabulary, but with errors.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are frequent grammatical errors, but meaning is generally clear.
Should stricter regulations be placed on air travel to reduce carbon emissions? This question relates to specific measures that could be part of a broader climate change strategy, including a global tax.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Climate change (noun) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
- Global tax (noun phrase) – /ˈɡləʊb(ə)l tæks/ – A tax imposed internationally
- Carbon emissions (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃ(ə)nz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
- Greenhouse gases (noun phrase) – /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ˈɡæsɪz/ – Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect
- Renewable energy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈnjuːəb(ə)l ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from sources that are naturally replenished
- Sustainable development (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəb(ə)l dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations
- Mitigation (noun) – /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃ(ə)n/ – The action of reducing the severity or impact of something
- Adaptation (noun) – /ædæpˈteɪʃ(ə)n/ – The process of changing to suit different conditions
- Environmental conservation (noun phrase) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈment(ə)l ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃ(ə)n/ – The protection and preservation of the natural environment
- Carbon footprint (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
Conclusion
The topic of a global tax to combat climate change is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Similar questions might ask about other global initiatives to address climate change, such as international agreements on emissions reduction, global investments in renewable energy, or worldwide reforestation efforts.
To prepare for such topics, it’s crucial to:
- Stay informed about current environmental issues and policies
- Practice expressing your opinion clearly and supporting it with relevant examples
- Consider multiple perspectives on the issue
- Use a range of vocabulary related to climate change and global cooperation
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about your opinion, but how well you can articulate and support your ideas. Practice writing essays on this and similar topics to improve your skills. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement can significantly enhance your writing abilities and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.
The effects of climate change on global agriculture is another important aspect to consider when discussing global measures to address climate change.