“Ethical sourcing” refers to procuring goods and services from suppliers that operate ethically and responsibly. This practice has become increasingly important in today’s globalized world, leading to its frequent appearance in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Understanding this concept is crucial for achieving a high band score.

Here are some possible IELTS Writing Task 2 questions related to this topic:

1. In recent years, there has been growing concern about the ethical practices of businesses. To what extent do you agree or disagree that companies have a responsibility to ensure their supply chains are ethical?
2. Many consumers are unaware of the origins of the products they buy. Should companies be legally obligated to disclose information about their supply chains, including ethical sourcing practices?
3. What are the main challenges and benefits of implementing ethical sourcing in global supply chains? Discuss.

Crafting a High-Scoring IELTS Essay: A Sample Response

Analyzing the Question

Let’s break down the first question:

“In recent years, there has been growing concern about the ethical practices of businesses. To what extent do you agree or disagree that companies have a responsibility to ensure their supply chains are ethical?”

This question requires you to present your stance on whether companies should be held accountable for the ethical practices of their entire supply chain. You need to provide a clear opinion (agree or disagree) and support it with relevant examples and arguments.

Model Essay

In an era of heightened awareness regarding corporate social responsibility, the ethical practices employed by businesses have come under increasing scrutiny. This essay firmly asserts that companies bear a significant responsibility to guarantee the ethical integrity of their supply chains.

Firstly, ethical sourcing is intrinsically linked to a company’s reputation and brand image. In today’s interconnected world, news about unethical practices, such as child labor or environmental damage within a company’s supply chain, can spread rapidly through social media and news outlets. Such negative publicity can lead to consumer boycotts, damage to brand value, and long-term financial losses for the company. Conversely, companies that prioritize ethical sourcing often attract consumers who are willing to pay a premium for ethically produced goods, thereby boosting both profits and brand loyalty.

Secondly, ensuring ethical sourcing is not just a moral imperative but also a legal obligation in many countries. For instance, the UK Modern Slavery Act requires companies to report on steps taken to eradicate slavery and human trafficking in their supply chains. Similarly, the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation mandates companies to source certain minerals responsibly to avoid financing armed conflicts. By adhering to these regulations, companies can avoid legal repercussions and demonstrate their commitment to ethical business practices.

However, implementing ethical sourcing across complex global supply chains presents significant challenges. Tracing the origin of every component and verifying the ethical practices of every supplier can be a daunting and resource-intensive task. Nevertheless, these challenges are not insurmountable. Companies can leverage technology, such as blockchain, to enhance transparency and traceability within their supply chains. They can also collaborate with NGOs and industry groups to develop and implement ethical sourcing standards and auditing mechanisms.

In conclusion, ensuring ethical sourcing within supply chains is not merely a matter of social responsibility but a fundamental business imperative. Companies that fail to prioritize ethical sourcing risk damaging their reputation, violating laws, and losing the trust of increasingly ethically conscious consumers. Therefore, it is incumbent upon businesses to proactively address ethical concerns within their supply chains and embrace ethical sourcing as a core principle of their operations.

(Word count: 324 words)

Writing Tips

• Clear Structure: Maintain a clear essay structure with an introduction, body paragraphs (2-3), and a conclusion.
• Topic Sentences: Begin each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that outlines the main point of the paragraph.
• Supporting Evidence: Provide specific examples, statistics, or case studies to support your arguments.
• Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to business ethics and supply chains.
• Linking Words: Use cohesive devices such as “furthermore,” “moreover,” “however,” and “in conclusion” to ensure a smooth flow of ideas.

Key Vocabulary

• Ethical Sourcing (noun): The process of ensuring that products are obtained in a responsible and sustainable way, treating suppliers fairly and ethically.
• Supply Chain (noun): The sequence of processes involved in the production and distribution of a product or service.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (noun): A company’s sense of responsibility towards the community and environment in which it operates.
• Brand Image (noun): The impression of a product or company in the minds of consumers.
• Consumer Boycott (noun): A form of consumer activism involving the withdrawal of support for a company or product.
• Transparency (noun): The quality of being open and honest in business dealings.
• Traceability (noun): The ability to track the origins of products and materials within a supply chain.

ethical sourcing

Conclusion

Mastering the topic of ethical sourcing is essential for IELTS candidates aiming for a high band score. By understanding the concept, practicing essay writing, and familiarizing yourself with relevant vocabulary, you can confidently tackle any IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject. Remember to analyze the question carefully, present a clear opinion, and support your arguments with relevant examples and evidence.