The environmental impact of landfills has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. This reflects growing global concern about waste management and environmental protection, similar to fast fashion’s impact on environmental sustainability.
Recent IELTS Question Analysis
Some people believe that landfills are the best way to handle waste disposal, while others argue they cause serious environmental problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Understanding the Question
- Task type: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- Arguments for landfills
- Environmental concerns
- Personal stance with justification
Environmental impact of modern landfill waste management systems
Sample Essays
Band 8 Model Answer
In the ongoing debate about waste management, while some advocate for landfills as a practical solution, others highlight their detrimental environmental effects. In my opinion, although landfills currently serve a necessary function, their environmental costs outweigh their benefits.
Proponents of landfills argue that they offer a convenient and cost-effective method of waste disposal. Modern landfills are engineered with sophisticated systems for containing waste and managing environmental risks, much like how importance of ethical fashion in reducing environmental damage has evolved. These facilities can handle large volumes of waste efficiently and provide immediate solutions for growing urban areas.
However, the environmental consequences of landfills are significant and far-reaching. Firstly, they release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Additionally, toxic substances can leach into groundwater, contaminating local water supplies and ecosystems. The long-term occupation of land also presents problems for future generations, similar to how Does the fashion industry negatively impact the environment.
In my view, while landfills may be necessary in the short term, they represent an unsustainable approach to waste management. We should focus on developing alternatives such as recycling, waste reduction, and circular economy principles. These solutions address the root cause rather than merely managing symptoms.
Landfill leachate contamination affecting surrounding soil and water resources
Band 6.5 Model Answer
Nowadays, people have different opinions about using landfills for waste disposal. Some think they are good, but others worry about their effect on the environment. I will discuss both sides and share my thoughts.
People who support landfills say they are useful because they give us a place to put our trash. Many cities don’t have enough space for waste, so landfills help solve this problem. Also, some modern landfills can make money by collecting gas from the waste.
On the other hand, landfills can hurt the environment in many ways. They make the air smell bad and can pollute underground water. Animals and plants near landfills often die or get sick. These problems are similar to how why fast fashion is harmful to the environment.
I think landfills are bad for our planet. We should try to make less waste and recycle more instead of making new landfills. If we don’t change, future generations will have more environmental problems to deal with.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments
- Academic tone throughout
- Relevant examples and explanations
Band 6.5 Essay Features
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization
- Some development of ideas
- Occasional errors
- Limited range of vocabulary
Key Vocabulary
- Leachate (n) /ˈliːtʃeɪt/ – contaminated liquid from landfills
- Methane emissions (n) /ˈmiːθeɪn/ – release of greenhouse gases
- Waste management (n) – system of handling waste
- Contamination (n) /kənˌtæmɪˈneɪʃən/ – pollution of environment
- Biodegradable (adj) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of decomposing naturally
Conclusion
The environmental impact of landfills remains a crucial IELTS topic. Practice writing about similar environmental issues like Next day delivery impact on environment. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement.
