Sustainable development has become an increasingly pivotal aspect of economic policies globally. As today’s economies strive for growth, the need to balance economic progress with sustainability is more crucial than ever. This subject frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts, thus making it imperative for candidates to understand and articulate their perspectives on it effectively.
Example Prompts
- “Economic progress is often seen as essential for industrial development. However, some people believe that attaining sustainable development is equally crucial. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.”
- “Some people argue that governments should prioritize economic progress over sustainable development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?”
- “Environmental issues are becoming more serious due to the unrestrained economic growth. Discuss the measures that can be taken to achieve sustainable development in economic policies.”
Main Content
Choosing a Prompt
For this article, we will focus on the first prompt: “Economic progress is often seen as essential for industrial development. However, some people believe that attaining sustainable development is equally crucial. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.”
Analyzing the Prompt
The task calls for discussing two different viewpoints regarding the importance of economic progress and sustainable development. Subsequently, you are asked to provide your opinion.
- Keywords: Economic progress, industrial development, sustainable development, essential, crucial.
- Task Requirements: Balance between discussing both views and expressing a personal stance.
Sample Essay
In the contemporary world, economic progress is often hailed as a cornerstone of industrial advancement. On the other hand, sustainable development has emerged as an indispensable element of long-term economic policies. In this essay, I will discuss both perspectives while also providing my own insight on this matter.
Advocates of economic progress posit that it is the bedrock upon which industrial development is built. A growing economy generates employment, increases national income, and elevates the standard of living. For instance, countries like China and India have witnessed significant industrial growth due to robust economic policies, which have subsequently led to improved infrastructure and increased foreign investments. Moreover, economic growth is crucial for funding advancements in technology and education, sectors that are vital for the holistic development of a nation.
Conversely, proponents of sustainable development argue that unchecked economic growth can lead to severe environmental degradation. The depletion of natural resources and rising pollution levels are significant concerns. Sustainable development ensures that economic policies are designed with a long-term perspective, safeguarding the environment for future generations. Policies that integrate renewable energy sources and promote energy efficiency are examples of sustainable initiatives that support economic growth while maintaining ecological balance.
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In my opinion, while economic progress is essential for industrial development, it cannot be pursued at the expense of environmental sustainability. The integration of sustainable development within economic policies creates a balanced approach that promotes growth without compromising the ecosystem. Countries like Sweden and Germany have demonstrated that it is possible to achieve economic prosperity while adhering to sustainable practices.
In conclusion, although economic progress is a vital component of industrial development, sustainable development is equally crucial. Achieving a symbiotic relationship between the two will ensure the well-being of both the economy and the environment.
Word count: 290
Key Points to Remember
- Balance: Ensure that both perspectives are discussed evenly.
- Cohesion and Coherence: Use linking words and clear paragraphing to maintain a logical flow.
- Lexical Resource: Utilize a varied range of vocabulary related to the topic.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Indispensable (adj): /ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbl/ – absolutely necessary.
- Holistic (adj): /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – considering the whole rather than individual parts.
- Depletion (n): /dɪˈpliːʃn/ – reduction in the number or quantity of something.
- Adhering (v): /ədˈhɪərɪŋ/ – sticking to or following.
- Symbiotic (adj): /sɪmˌbaɪˈɒtɪk/ – involving interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association.
Conclusion
Balancing economic progress with sustainable development in economic policies is a crucial topic in modern discourse and the IELTS exam. This essay has provided a structured approach to discuss both perspectives and share a well-rounded opinion. Additionally, other potential prompts on this subject could include variations emphasizing governmental roles, specific environmental policies, and the global impact of sustainability-driven economic decisions.
By understanding and practicing these concepts, IELTS candidates can enhance their writing skills and perform better in the exam.