Ethical consumption and its role in protecting the environment is a topic that has gained significant traction in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on an analysis of past exam trends and current global issues, we can expect this theme to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that consumers should avoid buying products from companies that do not follow ethical practices in their production processes. Others argue that consumers should prioritize quality and price over ethical considerations. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question touches on the core aspects of ethical consumption and its impact on consumer behavior. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that consumers should boycott unethical companies
2. Present the opposing argument that quality and price should be the primary factors in purchasing decisions
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

Let’s examine three sample essays addressing this topic, each targeting a different band score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s globalized economy, the debate over ethical consumption has gained prominence, with some advocating for boycotting companies with questionable practices, while others prioritize product quality and affordability. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own stance on this complex issue.

Those who support avoiding unethical companies argue that consumer choices have the power to drive positive change in corporate behavior. By refusing to purchase from businesses that engage in exploitative labor practices, environmental degradation, or animal cruelty, consumers can exert economic pressure, compelling these companies to adopt more responsible practices. This approach is rooted in the belief that ethical considerations should be paramount in our purchasing decisions, as they reflect our values and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

Conversely, proponents of prioritizing quality and price contend that these factors are more practical and relevant to the average consumer. They argue that in a world where many struggle with financial constraints, it is unrealistic and potentially elitist to expect all consumers to prioritize ethical considerations over their immediate needs and budget limitations. Furthermore, they posit that high-quality products often have a longer lifespan, which can be more environmentally friendly in the long run, regardless of the manufacturer’s ethical standing.

In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, I believe that a balanced approach is most appropriate. Consumers should strive to make ethical choices when possible, but not at the expense of their financial well-being or access to essential goods. Education plays a crucial role in this context, as informed consumers can make better decisions that align with both their values and practical needs. Additionally, governments and NGOs should work towards making ethical products more accessible and affordable, bridging the gap between ethical considerations and economic realities.

In conclusion, the issue of ethical consumption versus price and quality is not a binary choice but a spectrum. As society progresses, we should aim to create an environment where ethical products become the norm rather than the exception, making it easier for consumers to make responsible choices without significant personal sacrifice.

(Word count: 329)

Ethical Consumption and Environmental Protection Diagram

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:

1. Clear structure: The essay follows a logical progression, introducing the topic, discussing both viewpoints, presenting a personal opinion, and concluding effectively.

2. Coherence and cohesion: Ideas flow smoothly from one paragraph to the next, with appropriate use of linking words and phrases.

3. Lexical resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, such as “globalized economy,” “exploitative labor practices,” and “environmental degradation.”

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly throughout the essay, demonstrating a high level of grammatical control.

5. Task response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a well-developed response with a clear position.

6. Critical thinking: The writer demonstrates the ability to analyze the issue from multiple perspectives and provides a nuanced personal opinion.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The topic of ethical consumption is becoming more important in today’s world. Some people think we should not buy from companies that don’t follow good practices, while others believe price and quality are more important. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support avoiding unethical companies say that it’s important to use our money to support good practices. If we don’t buy from companies that treat workers badly or harm the environment, they might change their ways. This can help make the world a better place and show that we care about important issues.

On the other hand, people who focus on price and quality argue that many people can’t afford to always buy ethical products. These products are often more expensive, and not everyone has enough money to choose them. Also, sometimes ethical products might not be as good quality as other options, which can be a problem for consumers.

In my opinion, I think both sides have good points, but we should try to find a balance. It’s important to consider ethics when we shop, but we also need to be realistic about our budgets and needs. Maybe we can choose ethical options for some things, but not everything. It’s also important for governments to help make ethical products more available and affordable for everyone.

To conclude, the issue of ethical consumption versus price and quality is complex. While it’s good to support ethical companies, we also need to consider practical aspects. In the future, hopefully ethical products will become more common and easier for everyone to choose.

(Word count: 272)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Adequate structure: The essay follows a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion. However, the development of ideas could be more thorough.

2. Coherence and cohesion: The essay uses some cohesive devices, but the linking between and within paragraphs could be more sophisticated.

3. Lexical resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate, but lacks the precision and range seen in higher band scores.

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there is room for improvement in terms of variety and sophistication.

5. Task response: All parts of the task are addressed, but the response could be more fully developed with more specific examples or deeper analysis.

6. Critical thinking: The writer presents both viewpoints and offers a personal opinion, demonstrating some analytical skills, though not as in-depth as the Band 8-9 essay.

Ethical Consumer Choices Infographic

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, people talk about buying things from good companies. Some say we should not buy from bad companies. Others think price and quality are more important. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

People who don’t want to buy from bad companies think it’s important to be good. If we don’t buy from companies that hurt workers or the environment, maybe they will change. This can help make the world better.

But some people think price and quality are more important. They say ethical products are expensive and not everyone can buy them. Sometimes these products are not as good as other ones. This is a problem for people who don’t have much money.

I think both ideas are good. We should try to buy good products, but we also need to think about our money. Maybe we can buy some ethical things, but not everything. The government should help make ethical products cheaper.

In conclusion, it’s hard to choose between ethical products and cheap, good products. We should try to be good when we can, but also think about what we need.

(Word count: 183)

Essay Analysis (Band 5-6)

This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 5-6 range:

1. Basic structure: The essay follows a simple structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, but lacks depth in development.

2. Limited coherence: There are some basic linking words, but the overall coherence is limited.

3. Simple vocabulary: The vocabulary used is basic and repetitive, with limited range and precision.

4. Basic grammar: Sentences are generally simple with some attempts at complex structures, but there are noticeable errors.

5. Task response: The essay addresses the task, but the response is underdeveloped and lacks specific examples or detailed explanations.

6. Limited critical thinking: The writer presents basic ideas from both perspectives and offers a simple personal opinion, but lacks depth in analysis.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Ethical consumption (noun) – /ˈeθɪkəl kənˈsʌmpʃən/ – The practice of purchasing products and services that are produced in a way that minimizes social and/or environmental damage.

2. Sustainability (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time without causing damage to the environment.

3. Corporate responsibility (noun) – /ˈkɔːpərət rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – The idea that businesses should balance profit-making activities with activities that benefit society.

4. Boycott (verb/noun) – /ˈbɔɪkɒt/ – To refuse to buy, use, or participate in something as a way of protesting.

5. Exploitative (adjective) – /ɪkˈsplɔɪtətɪv/ – Using or taking advantage of someone or something in an unfair or selfish way.

6. Environmental degradation (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources and destruction of ecosystems.

7. Consumer behavior (noun) – /kənˈsjuːmə bɪˈheɪvjə/ – The study of individuals, groups, or organizations and the processes they use to select, secure, use, and dispose of products, services, experiences, or ideas to satisfy needs.

8. Fair trade (noun) – /feə treɪd/ – A system of trading agricultural products and handicrafts that aims to help producers in developing countries achieve better trading conditions.

Ethical Consumption Word Cloud

In conclusion, the topic of ethical consumption and its role in protecting the environment is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

1. The impact of consumer choices on global sustainability
2. The role of governments in promoting ethical consumption
3. Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
4. The effectiveness of individual actions in addressing global environmental issues

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on the topic provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2.