Climate change impacts on coastal tourism has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across recent test papers. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and the effect of climate change on coastal cities, this theme is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
The devastating effects of climate change on coastal tourism and beach destinations
Task Analysis
Some people believe that climate change will severely impact tourism in coastal areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their position on the relationship between climate change and coastal tourism
- Support their viewpoint with relevant examples
- Maintain a clear and consistent argument throughout
- Provide a balanced discussion considering multiple aspects
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The devastating impacts of climate change on coastal tourism are increasingly evident, and I strongly agree that this environmental crisis poses a severe threat to seaside destinations worldwide. This essay will examine the various ways in which the effects of climate change on the tourism industry are manifesting and their long-term implications.
Firstly, rising sea levels and coastal erosion are directly threatening beach tourism infrastructure. Hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities built along shorelines are increasingly vulnerable to damage from storm surges and flooding. For instance, popular beach resorts in the Maldives have already been forced to construct extensive sea walls and relocate facilities inland, significantly impacting their appeal to tourists.
Furthermore, the degradation of marine ecosystems severely affects tourism activities. How climate change is affecting global sea levels shows that warming oceans are causing widespread coral bleaching, destroying the vibrant underwater landscapes that attract millions of snorkelers and divers annually. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia exemplifies this crisis, with repeated bleaching events diminishing its tourism value.
Additionally, changing weather patterns are disrupting traditional tourism seasons. More frequent extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, are making coastal destinations less predictable and less attractive to visitors. Caribbean islands, for example, have experienced significant drops in tourism revenue during extended storm seasons.
In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the view that climate change will have severe repercussions for coastal tourism. Unless immediate action is taken to address this global challenge, many beloved beach destinations may become unsustainable for tourism activities.
The impact of rising sea levels and coastal erosion on beach tourism infrastructure
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that climate change is having bad effects on coastal tourism. There are several reasons why this is happening and it’s becoming a bigger problem every year.
The first problem is that beaches are being damaged. When the sea level goes up, it makes beaches smaller and sometimes they disappear completely. This means tourists can’t enjoy the beach like before. For example, some beaches in Thailand have gotten much smaller in recent years.
Another problem is that many sea animals are dying. When the ocean gets warmer, fish and coral reefs die. This is bad for tourism because many people like to go diving and see these things. Also, impact of climate change on coastal areas shows that storms are getting stronger and happening more often. This makes it dangerous for tourists to visit during certain times of the year.
Hotels and restaurants near the beach are also having problems. When there are big storms, these buildings can get damaged. This costs a lot of money to fix and sometimes places have to close down. This means fewer tourists can visit these areas.
In conclusion, I think climate change is definitely hurting coastal tourism in many ways. If we don’t do something about it, many popular beach destinations might not be good for tourists anymore.
Key Vocabulary
- Coastal erosion (n) /ˈkəʊstl ɪˈrəʊʒn/ – The wearing away of land by the sea
- Marine ecosystem (n) /məˈriːn ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – The community of living organisms in the ocean
- Storm surge (n) /stɔːm sɜːdʒ/ – An abnormal rise in sea level during storms
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – Basic physical structures needed for operation
- Degradation (n) /ˌdegrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The process of becoming worse or lower in quality
Practice Suggestions
Consider writing essays on these related topics:
- The economic impact of climate change on island nations
- Solutions to protect coastal tourism from environmental threats
- The role of governments in preserving coastal attractions
Share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners.
