The role of renewable energy in reducing air pollution has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on environmental issues, it is highly likely that this theme will continue to appear frequently in future tests. To help you prepare effectively, we have selected a relevant question that closely resembles those seen in past IELTS exams:
Some people believe that the best way to reduce air pollution is to increase the price of fuel for cars and other vehicles. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question addresses the relationship between fuel prices and air pollution, indirectly touching on the role of renewable energy. It requires candidates to:
- Understand the proposed solution: increasing fuel prices to reduce air pollution
- Consider the effectiveness of this approach
- Form an opinion on whether they agree or disagree with the statement
- Provide reasons and examples to support their position
Band 8 Sample Essay
Here’s a high-quality sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8 range:
In recent years, the alarming levels of air pollution in many cities worldwide have prompted discussions on effective measures to combat this issue. While some argue that raising fuel prices is the most efficient way to reduce air pollution, I partially agree with this view, as I believe it should be part of a more comprehensive strategy.
Increasing the cost of fuel for vehicles can indeed contribute to reducing air pollution in several ways. Firstly, higher fuel prices would discourage excessive car usage, prompting people to seek alternative modes of transportation such as public transit, cycling, or walking. This shift would lead to fewer vehicles on the roads and, consequently, lower emissions. Additionally, elevated fuel costs might incentivize car manufacturers to invest more in developing fuel-efficient or electric vehicles, further reducing the carbon footprint of the transportation sector.
However, relying solely on increased fuel prices to address air pollution has its limitations. For one, it disproportionately affects lower-income individuals who may have no choice but to use their vehicles for work or essential travel. This could lead to social inequality and potential economic hardships for certain segments of society. Moreover, without adequate alternatives in place, such as efficient public transportation systems or infrastructure for electric vehicles, people may feel forced to continue using their cars despite the higher costs.
A more holistic approach to reducing air pollution would involve combining increased fuel prices with other measures. Governments should invest in expanding and improving public transportation networks, making them more accessible and appealing to commuters. Additionally, promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources for both transportation and industrial sectors would significantly contribute to cleaner air. Implementing stricter emissions standards for vehicles and industries, along with providing incentives for eco-friendly technologies, could also play a crucial role in tackling air pollution.
In conclusion, while increasing fuel prices can be an effective tool in reducing air pollution, it should not be considered the sole solution. A multifaceted strategy that incorporates various measures, including the promotion of renewable energy and sustainable transportation options, is more likely to yield long-lasting results in the fight against air pollution.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis
This essay would likely receive a Band 8 score for the following reasons:
-
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a balanced view. It discusses both the advantages and limitations of increasing fuel prices and proposes alternative solutions.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically connected using appropriate cohesive devices.
-
Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately. Complex expressions are used effectively, such as “disproportionately affects,” “multifaceted strategy,” and “eco-friendly technologies.”
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures are used accurately, with only minor errors. The essay showcases good control of grammar and punctuation.
-
Development of Ideas: Ideas are well-developed with relevant examples and explanations. The essay goes beyond the basic premise to discuss broader implications and alternative solutions.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Air pollution is a big problem in many cities today. Some people think that making fuel more expensive for cars and other vehicles is the best way to reduce this pollution. I partly agree with this idea, but I think there are also other important things we should do.
Increasing fuel prices can help reduce air pollution in some ways. When fuel costs more, people might drive less and choose to use public transport, ride bicycles, or walk instead. This means fewer cars on the roads and less pollution from exhaust fumes. Also, if fuel is expensive, car companies might try harder to make cars that use less fuel or run on electricity, which could help reduce pollution even more.
However, just making fuel more expensive might not be enough to solve the problem of air pollution. It could be unfair to people who don’t earn much money but need to use their cars for work or important trips. These people might struggle to pay for the more expensive fuel. Also, if there aren’t good alternatives like buses or trains, people might keep using their cars even if it costs more.
I think we need to do more than just raise fuel prices to really reduce air pollution. Governments should improve public transport so it’s easier and more comfortable for people to use. They should also encourage the use of clean energy like solar and wind power for cars and factories. Making stricter rules about how much pollution cars and factories can produce is another important step. Giving rewards to companies that use green technology could also help.
In conclusion, while making fuel more expensive can help reduce air pollution, it’s not the only solution we should use. We need to combine this with other actions like improving public transport and using more clean energy to really make our air cleaner.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis
This essay would likely receive a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:
-
Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be further developed and supported with more specific examples.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with each paragraph focusing on a main idea. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited and repetitive.
-
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores. There is some attempt to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “exhaust fumes,” “stricter rules”), but the language is generally simpler.
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. However, there is less variety in sentence structures compared to the Band 8 essay.
-
Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and logically organized, but they could be elaborated upon more fully. The essay presents valid points but lacks the depth and nuance of higher-scoring responses.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Air pollution (noun) – /eə(r) pəˈluːʃn/ – The presence of harmful substances in the air we breathe
- Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, like sun or wind
- Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – To encourage or motivate someone to do something
- Holistic approach (noun) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method of addressing a problem by considering all its aspects
- Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
- Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment
- Emissions (noun) – /ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources
Conclusion
The topic of renewable energy and its role in reducing air pollution is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The government’s role in promoting renewable energy
- The impact of individual actions on reducing air pollution
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
- The future of transportation and its effect on air quality
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures in your essay. Feel free to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare for the exam.