Environmental protection has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of actual test questions over the past five years. This high frequency reflects the growing global concern about environmental issues and sustainability. Let’s explore some excellent sample essays that demonstrate how to effectively address this critical topic.
The importance of climate action for future generations has become increasingly relevant in IELTS writing tasks, particularly when discussing environmental protection.
Question Analysis and Sample Essays
Some people believe that protecting the environment is the government’s responsibility. Others believe it is the responsibility of individuals. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of Question Requirements:
- Task type: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- Government responsibility
- Individual responsibility
- Personal viewpoint with justification
- Recommended structure: 4 paragraphs
Government and individual roles in environmental protection
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether environmental protection should be primarily handled by governments or individuals has become increasingly significant as our planet faces unprecedented ecological challenges. While both parties have crucial roles to play, I believe that effective environmental protection requires a collaborative effort between governmental bodies and citizens.
Government authorities possess the power and resources to implement large-scale environmental policies. They can enact and enforce regulations controlling industrial emissions, manage waste disposal systems, and establish protected areas for wildlife conservation. Moreover, governments can allocate substantial budgets for environmental research and sustainable infrastructure development. As demonstrated by importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem balance, governmental intervention is crucial for preserving our ecosystems.
Individual actions, however, are equally vital in environmental protection. Citizens can make environmentally conscious choices in their daily lives, such as reducing energy consumption, recycling, and choosing sustainable products. Furthermore, individuals can participate in local environmental initiatives and raise awareness about ecological issues in their communities. Similar to how importance of recycling programs in schools shows the impact of individual participation, personal commitment to environmental protection can create significant collective impact.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to environmental protection involves both governmental and individual efforts working in synergy. While governments provide the framework and resources for environmental protection, individuals must actively participate in these initiatives and make responsible choices. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive environmental protection at both macro and micro levels.
Key Vocabulary:
- unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈprɛsɪdɛntɪd/ – never known or done before
- ecological (adj) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/ – relating to ecology or the environment
- synergy (n) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – interaction producing greater combined effect
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained without damaging the environment
- initiatives (n) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz/ – new plans or processes to achieve something
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
There is much discussion about who should be responsible for protecting our environment. Some people think it is the government’s job, while others believe individuals should take responsibility. I will discuss both views and share my opinion.
Governments have important powers to protect the environment. They can make laws to stop factories from polluting and can punish companies that damage nature. They also have money to start programs for cleaning cities and saving wildlife. For example, many governments now have special departments that work only on environmental protection.
On the other hand, individual people can also help protect the environment in their daily lives. They can save electricity, use less plastic, and recycle their waste. Many people also join groups that clean beaches or plant trees. These small actions can make a big difference when many people do them together.
I think both the government and individuals need to work together to protect the environment. The government should make good laws and provide support, while people should follow these laws and make good choices in their daily lives. Only by working together can we solve our environmental problems.
Different approaches to environmental protection
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with coherent ideas
- Detailed examples and explanations
- Balanced discussion with well-supported opinion
- Natural paragraph transitions
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but accurate sentence structures
- Basic organization of ideas
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Some repetition in language
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of international cooperation in environmental protection
- Environmental education in schools
- Corporate responsibility in environmental protection
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions. Remember to maintain the standard 250-300 word count and follow the proper essay structure.
