Studies show that questions about local resource utilization and environmental protection frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, accounting for approximately 15% of all environment-related topics in recent years. This trend is expected to continue given the growing global focus on sustainable development and environmental conservation. Looking at how tourism can contribute to environmental degradation, we can better understand the importance of proper resource management.
Analysis of Recent Exam Topic
Some people believe that using local resources is the best way to protect the environment, while others think the government should focus on importing resources from other countries. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Topic Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine two contrasting views on environmental protection
- Evaluate the role of local resources versus imports
- Present a balanced discussion with personal stance
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Using local resources for environmental protection has become increasingly important in modern environmental policies.
Sample Essays with Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Sample
The debate over whether to utilize local resources or rely on imports for environmental protection presents compelling arguments on both sides. While local resource usage can minimize transportation emissions and support regional sustainability, importing resources may sometimes offer more environmentally efficient solutions.
Those advocating for local resource utilization argue that this approach significantly reduces carbon emissions from long-distance transportation. For instance, when communities source building materials locally, they eliminate the need for extensive shipping, thereby decreasing their carbon footprint. Additionally, local resource management often leads to better environmental stewardship as communities have a direct stake in preserving their immediate surroundings.
Is using local resources best for environmental protection is a question that deserves careful consideration. Proponents of importing resources contend that some regions may lack environmentally friendly alternatives locally. For example, countries without access to renewable energy technology might need to import solar panels or wind turbines to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Furthermore, importing resources from regions with more sustainable production methods could actually result in lower overall environmental impact.
In my opinion, a balanced approach combining both strategies would be most effective. While prioritizing local resources where feasible, governments should remain open to importing environmentally superior alternatives when necessary. This hybrid strategy ensures optimal environmental protection while maintaining economic viability.
Band 6.5 Essay Sample
Local resources and imported resources both have good and bad points for protecting the environment. Some people think local is better, but others want to import things from other countries.
Using local resources can help the environment because things don’t need to travel far. When we use local materials, trucks don’t need to drive long distances and make pollution. Also, local people can take better care of their own resources because they live there.
But some people think importing is better sometimes. If a country doesn’t have good technology for clean energy, they need to buy it from other places. This can help them stop using bad energy sources like coal. Sometimes other countries make things in better ways that don’t hurt the environment so much.
I think both ways can be good for the environment. Countries should try to use local resources when they can, but also import things when it’s better for the environment. This way helps protect nature the best.
Government vs. individual responsibility for environment remains a crucial factor in implementation.
Key Vocabulary
- Environmental stewardship (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ – responsible use and protection of the environment
- Carbon footprint (n) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – amount of carbon dioxide emissions caused by an activity
- Sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain ecological balance
- Resource management (n) /rɪˈsɔːs ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – efficient handling of resources
- Ecological impact (n) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈɪmpækt/ – effect on the environment
Conclusion
The topic of local resource utilization in environmental protection continues to be relevant in IELTS examinations. Similar questions might focus on:
- Community involvement in environmental decisions
- Balancing economic development with environmental protection
- Local versus global environmental initiatives
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.