Mastering IELTS Reading: Tackling “The Effects of Environmental Degradation on Human Health”

The IELTS Reading section is a crucial component of the test, requiring candidates to demonstrate their ability to comprehend complex texts and extract relevant information. One topic that has gained significant traction in recent years is “The effects of environmental degradation on human health.” This subject has appeared in various forms across multiple IELTS exams, reflecting its growing importance in global discourse.

Given the increasing frequency of environmental themes in IELTS Reading passages, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter a text related to environmental degradation and its impact on human health in your upcoming test. To help you prepare effectively, we’ve created a practice passage and questions that mirror the format and difficulty level of the actual IELTS exam.

Practice Reading Passage: The Effects of Environmental Degradation on Human Health

The Silent Threat: Environmental Degradation and Human Well-being

Environmental degradation is a pervasive issue that affects every corner of our planet. From air pollution in bustling metropolises to water contamination in rural communities, the impact of human activities on the environment has far-reaching consequences for public health. As we continue to exploit natural resources and emit harmful pollutants, we unknowingly compromise our own well-being and that of future generations.

One of the most immediate and visible effects of environmental degradation on human health is the rise in respiratory diseases. Air pollution, caused by industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and the burning of fossil fuels, has been linked to a host of respiratory ailments, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution alone is responsible for millions of premature deaths annually, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the brunt of this silent epidemic.

Water pollution, another critical aspect of environmental degradation, poses equally severe health risks. Contaminated water sources can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Moreover, the presence of toxic chemicals and heavy metals in water supplies can result in long-term health issues, including kidney damage, developmental problems in children, and various forms of cancer. The situation is particularly dire in regions where access to clean water is limited, exacerbating existing health inequalities.

The degradation of soil quality, often overlooked in discussions of environmental health impacts, also plays a significant role in human well-being. Soil contamination from agricultural chemicals, industrial waste, and improper waste disposal can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in crops. These toxins then enter the food chain, potentially causing a range of health problems from acute poisoning to chronic diseases. Furthermore, soil erosion and desertification can result in reduced agricultural productivity, leading to food insecurity and malnutrition in affected populations.

Climate change, perhaps the most complex and far-reaching consequence of environmental degradation, has profound implications for human health. Rising global temperatures are associated with an increase in heat-related illnesses and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Climate change also alters the distribution of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever, potentially exposing new populations to these health threats. Additionally, extreme weather events linked to climate change, such as hurricanes and floods, can cause immediate physical harm and long-term mental health issues among survivors.

The relationship between environmental degradation and human health is not always straightforward. Many health impacts manifest over extended periods, making it challenging to establish direct causal links. However, mounting evidence suggests that the cumulative effects of environmental degradation on human health are substantial and often underestimated. From increased cancer rates in industrial areas to higher incidences of birth defects in regions with severe pollution, the health consequences of our environmental negligence are becoming increasingly apparent.

Addressing the health impacts of environmental degradation requires a multifaceted approach. Governments must implement and enforce stricter environmental regulations to curb pollution and protect natural resources. Industries need to adopt cleaner technologies and more sustainable practices to reduce their environmental footprint. On an individual level, people can make conscious choices to reduce their consumption, properly dispose of waste, and support environmentally friendly products and initiatives.

Moreover, the healthcare sector must adapt to address the growing burden of environmentally related illnesses. This includes training healthcare professionals to recognize and treat conditions linked to environmental factors, as well as investing in research to better understand the complex interactions between environmental degradation and human health.

As we continue to grapple with the consequences of our actions on the planet, it is clear that the health of our environment and our own well-being are inextricably linked. Recognizing and addressing the effects of environmental degradation on human health is not just a matter of environmental stewardship; it is a critical public health imperative that will shape the future of human civilization.

Environmental degradation effects on health

Questions

True/False/Not Given

1. Air pollution is primarily caused by industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust.
2. Water pollution affects only developing countries.
3. Soil contamination can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in crops.
4. Climate change has no impact on the distribution of vector-borne diseases.
5. The healthcare sector is fully prepared to address environmentally related illnesses.

Matching Headings

Match the following headings to the correct paragraphs in the passage. Write the correct number (i-viii) next to questions 6-10.

i. The hidden dangers of soil degradation
ii. Climate change: A multifaceted threat to health
iii. The visible impact of air pollution on respiratory health
iv. Long-term effects of environmental degradation
v. Water pollution: A global health crisis
vi. Solutions to mitigate environmental health impacts
vii. The complexity of environmental health relationships
viii. The future of human health in a degraded environment

6. Paragraph 3 _____
7. Paragraph 4 _____
8. Paragraph 5 _____
9. Paragraph 6 _____
10. Paragraph 7 _____

Multiple Choice

11. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a health effect of air pollution?
    A) Asthma
    B) Lung cancer
    C) Kidney damage
    D) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

12. The passage suggests that the impact of environmental degradation on human health is:
    A) Easily quantifiable
    B) Limited to specific regions
    C) Often underestimated
    D) Quickly resolved with current policies

13. Which of the following is described as a consequence of soil erosion and desertification?
    A) Increased agricultural productivity
    B) Food insecurity and malnutrition
    C) Improved soil quality
    D) Reduced water pollution

14. The passage indicates that addressing the health impacts of environmental degradation requires:
    A) Only government action
    B) Solely individual responsibility
    C) A multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders
    D) Exclusive focus on the healthcare sector

Short Answer Questions

Answer the following questions using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.

15. What type of countries are most affected by air pollution-related deaths?
16. Name one waterborne disease mentioned in the passage.
17. What specific population group is mentioned as being particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses?
18. According to the passage, what must the healthcare sector invest in to better understand environmental health impacts?

Answer Key and Explanations

True/False/Not Given

1. True – The passage states, “Air pollution, caused by industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and the burning of fossil fuels…”
2. False – The passage mentions that low- and middle-income countries are most affected, but it doesn’t state that only developing countries are affected.
3. True – The passage explicitly states, “Soil contamination from agricultural chemicals, industrial waste, and improper waste disposal can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in crops.”
4. False – The passage mentions that climate change “alters the distribution of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever.”
5. Not Given – The passage discusses the need for the healthcare sector to adapt but doesn’t state whether it’s fully prepared or not.

Matching Headings

6. v – The paragraph discusses water pollution and its health impacts.
7. i – This paragraph focuses on soil degradation and its effects on human health.
8. ii – The paragraph details various health impacts of climate change.
9. vii – This paragraph discusses the complex relationship between environmental degradation and health.
10. vi – The paragraph outlines various solutions to address environmental health impacts.

Multiple Choice

11. C – Kidney damage is mentioned in relation to water pollution, not air pollution.
12. C – The passage states, “mounting evidence suggests that the cumulative effects of environmental degradation on human health are substantial and often underestimated.”
13. B – The passage mentions, “soil erosion and desertification can result in reduced agricultural productivity, leading to food insecurity and malnutrition in affected populations.”
14. C – The passage describes a multifaceted approach involving governments, industries, individuals, and the healthcare sector.

Short Answer Questions

15. Low- and middle-income
16. Cholera (Acceptable alternatives: typhoid, hepatitis A)
17. The elderly
18. Research

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overlooking key phrases: Pay attention to qualifying words like “often,” “sometimes,” or “mainly” which can change the meaning of a statement.
2. Making assumptions: Stick to the information provided in the text and avoid drawing conclusions based on your own knowledge.
3. Misinterpreting Not Given: Remember that Not Given means the information is neither confirmed nor contradicted by the passage.
4. Rushing through the text: Take time to understand the overall structure and main ideas of each paragraph.

Key Vocabulary

• Environmental degradation: /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ (noun) – The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources and destruction of ecosystems.
• Respiratory: /rɪˈspɪrətəri/ (adjective) – Relating to breathing or the organs of breathing.
• Waterborne: /ˈwɔːtəbɔːn/ (adjective) – Transmitted by water.
• Vector-borne: /ˈvektə bɔːn/ (adjective) – (Of a disease) transmitted by a vector, typically an insect.
• Desertification: /dɪˌzɜːtɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ (noun) – The process by which fertile land becomes desert.

Grammar Focus

Pay attention to the use of passive voice in scientific and academic writing, for example:

• “Air pollution has been linked to a host of respiratory ailments.”
• “The situation is particularly dire in regions where access to clean water is limited.”

This structure is often used to emphasize the action or result rather than the actor.

Tips for Success in IELTS Reading

1. Practice active reading: Engage with the text by underlining key points and making brief notes.
2. Improve your time management: Allocate your time wisely among the different sections of the reading test.
3. Expand your vocabulary: Regularly learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics like environment and health.
4. Familiarize yourself with question types: Practice with all types of IELTS reading questions to improve your speed and accuracy.
5. Read widely: Expose yourself to various academic texts to build your reading stamina and comprehension skills.

Remember, success in IELTS Reading comes with consistent practice and a strategic approach. By familiarizing yourself with environmental topics like the effects of environmental degradation on human health, you’ll be better prepared to tackle similar passages in the actual test. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to seek additional resources and guidance as you prepare for your IELTS exam.

For more practice on related topics, check out our articles on the effects of air pollution on public health and the role of AI in environmental protection.