The topic of electric vehicles and their environmental impact has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme appears in approximately 15% of environment-related questions, particularly in questions about technological solutions to environmental problems.
Let’s examine one common question type that has appeared in recent IELTS tests:
Some people believe that the widespread adoption of electric vehicles is the best solution to reducing air pollution in cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to evaluate the effectiveness of electric vehicles as a solution to urban air pollution. Key points to consider include:
- The main argument: Electric vehicles vs air pollution
- The scope: Urban areas
- The task: Agree/disagree and justify your position
As discussed in why electric vehicles are essential for reducing pollution, this topic connects closely with broader environmental concerns.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The transition to electric vehicles has been widely promoted as an effective measure to combat urban air pollution. While I largely agree that EVs can significantly contribute to cleaner air in cities, I believe they represent just one component of a comprehensive solution.
Electric vehicles undoubtedly offer substantial benefits in terms of reducing local air pollution. Unlike conventional vehicles that emit harmful pollutants directly into urban environments, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, potentially leading to dramatic improvements in air quality. This is particularly significant when considering impact of urban heat islands on public health, where vehicle emissions exacerbate the problem. Furthermore, as electricity grids increasingly incorporate renewable energy sources, the overall environmental impact of EVs continues to decrease.
However, viewing electric vehicles as a complete solution oversimplifies the complex nature of urban air pollution. Industrial emissions, construction activities, and other sources contribute significantly to poor air quality. Moreover, the environmental impact of EV battery production and electricity generation must be considered. Related to this is the impact of car-free cities on pollution, which demonstrates that reducing overall vehicle dependency might be more effective.
In conclusion, while electric vehicles represent a crucial step toward cleaner urban air, they should be implemented alongside other measures such as improved public transportation, stricter industrial emissions controls, and urban planning reforms. This comprehensive approach would more effectively address the multifaceted challenge of urban air pollution.
Electric vehicles charging at modern urban station demonstrating sustainable transportation
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Electric cars are becoming more popular as a way to reduce pollution in cities. I agree that they can help make the air cleaner, but I think there are some problems we need to think about.
First, electric cars are good because they don’t make smoke like normal cars. When many people use electric cars in a city, there is less pollution in the air. This means people can breathe better air and have better health. Also, electric cars are quieter than normal cars, so they make cities less noisy.
But there are some problems with electric cars. They are very expensive, so many people cannot buy them. Also, we need many charging stations, which costs a lot of money to build. Sometimes the electricity used to charge cars comes from power plants that make pollution, so this is still a problem for the environment.
I think electric cars can help reduce pollution, but we also need other solutions. Governments should make public transport better and cheaper. People should also try to walk or use bicycles for short trips. These things together with electric cars can help make cities cleaner.
Key Vocabulary
- Tailpipe emissions (n) /ˈteɪlpaɪp ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – exhaust gases from vehicles
- Exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – make worse
- Multifaceted (adj) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical systems of a country
- Sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain at a certain level
Conclusion
These sample essays demonstrate different approaches to discussing the environmental impact of electric vehicles. For practice, try writing your own essay addressing this alternative question:
“Some people argue that governments should provide financial incentives to encourage electric vehicle adoption. Do you agree or disagree?”
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
