Air pollution and its health impacts have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent examinations. This environmental theme frequently intersects with The effects of air pollution on human health and often connects to broader discussions about The effects of climate change on human health.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Sample on Air Pollution Health Effects
Today’s Task 2 Question
In many cities, air pollution has become a serious health issue. What are the causes of this problem and what measures can be taken to tackle it?
Question Analysis
This question requires a two-part response:
- Causes of air pollution in cities
- Solutions to address the problem
- Focus on health impacts as context
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay Sample
Air pollution in urban areas has emerged as a critical public health concern, causing numerous respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This essay will examine the primary causes of this issue and propose effective solutions.
The main causes of urban air pollution are largely linked to human activities. Industrial emissions from factories and power plants release harmful substances such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. Additionally, the exponential growth in vehicle usage has led to increased carbon monoxide and particulate matter emissions, particularly in densely populated areas where impact of urbanization on public health is most evident.
To address this pressing issue, both governmental intervention and individual action are necessary. Authorities should implement stricter emission standards for industries and vehicles, while simultaneously investing in clean energy alternatives. Cities can also promote impact of urban green spaces on public health by developing more parks and green areas that help filter air pollutants. On an individual level, citizens should be encouraged to use public transportation, carpooling, or bicycle-sharing systems to reduce vehicle emissions.
In conclusion, while urban air pollution poses significant health risks, a combination of regulatory measures and public participation can effectively mitigate this problem. The success of these solutions depends on sustained commitment from both authorities and citizens.
Band 7.5 Essay Sample
Air pollution has become a major health concern in many urban areas, affecting millions of people worldwide. This essay will discuss its causes and potential solutions.
The primary causes of air pollution in cities include vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Cars, buses, and trucks release harmful gases and particles into the air, while factories contribute to pollution through their manufacturing processes. Construction activities and impact of noise pollution on urban health also add to the problem by releasing dust and particulate matter.
Several measures can be implemented to tackle this issue. Governments should enforce stricter regulations on industrial emissions and encourage the use of clean energy sources. Cities can improve public transportation systems to reduce private vehicle usage. Additionally, implementing green building standards and increasing urban vegetation can help filter pollutants from the air.
In conclusion, while air pollution presents significant challenges to urban health, various solutions exist that can help improve air quality. Both government action and public cooperation are essential for successful implementation.
Band 6.5 Essay Sample
Air pollution is becoming a bigger problem in cities these days. Many people are getting sick because of bad air quality. This essay will look at why this happens and what we can do about it.
The main reasons for air pollution are cars and factories. When people drive cars, they make the air dirty with smoke. Factories also put bad chemicals in the air when they make things. Also, when people burn trash or use old machines, it makes the air worse.
We can fix this problem in some ways. The government should make rules about factory smoke. People should try to use buses and trains more than cars. We can also plant more trees to make the air cleaner. Schools should teach children about keeping the air clean.
To finish, air pollution is a big problem but we can solve it if everyone helps. The government and people need to work together to make the air better for everyone.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with coherent paragraphs
- Relevant examples and detailed explanations
- Natural linking words
- Academic tone throughout
Band 7.5 Essay
- Good vocabulary range
- Clear structure
- Appropriate examples
- Some complex sentences
- Minor errors but good control
Band 6.5 Essay
- Basic vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Limited use of linking words
- Some repetition
- Basic examples
Key Vocabulary
- Particulate matter (n.) /pɑːˈtɪkjʊlət ˈmætə/ – tiny particles of pollution in the air
- Emissions (n.) /ɪˈmɪʃ(ə)n/ – substances released into the air
- Respiratory (adj.) /ˈrespərəˌtɔri/ – related to breathing
- Mitigation (n.) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃ(ə)n/ – reduction of something harmful
- Cardiovascular (adj.) /ˌkɑːdioʊˈvæskjʊlər/ – related to heart and blood vessels
In conclusion, mastering the ability to write about environmental topics like air pollution is crucial for IELTS success. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Future variations might include questions about specific health impacts or comparing air quality between different cities.
