IELTS Writing Task 2: Why Biodiversity Should Be Prioritized in Environmental Policies – Sample Essays and Analysis

Biodiversity conservation is a critical topic in environmental policies, and it frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and the increasing global focus on environmental issues, we can expect this subject to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Some people believe that protecting endangered species should be the priority of environmental policies, while others think that economic growth is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints:

1. Prioritizing the protection of endangered species in environmental policies
2. Focusing on economic growth instead

You need to explore both perspectives and then provide your own opinion on the matter. This type of question requires a balanced approach, clear structure, and a well-supported conclusion.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the debate between environmental conservation and economic development has intensified, with some arguing that protecting endangered species should be the primary focus of environmental policies, while others prioritize economic growth. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this complex issue.

Those who advocate for prioritizing endangered species protection argue that biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and long-term sustainability. They contend that each species plays a unique role in its ecosystem, and the loss of even one can have far-reaching consequences. For instance, the extinction of pollinators like bees could dramatically impact food production and plant diversity. Furthermore, proponents of this view emphasize that many endangered species have potential medicinal or scientific value that, once lost, cannot be recovered. This argument underscores the irreversible nature of species extinction and its potential impact on human well-being.

On the other hand, supporters of prioritizing economic growth argue that a strong economy is necessary to fund environmental protection efforts and improve overall quality of life. They believe that technological advancements and increased prosperity will eventually lead to more sustainable practices and better conservation efforts. For example, developed countries often have more resources to invest in renewable energy and habitat restoration projects. Additionally, they argue that poverty is a significant driver of environmental degradation in many parts of the world, and economic growth is essential for addressing this root cause.

In my opinion, while both perspectives have merit, I believe that protecting endangered species and biodiversity should take precedence in environmental policies. The reasoning behind this stance is that economic growth can be achieved through various means and can recover from setbacks, but extinction is permanent and irreversible. Moreover, a healthy and diverse ecosystem provides numerous economic benefits, including ecotourism, sustainable resource management, and potential discoveries in fields like medicine and biotechnology. By prioritizing biodiversity conservation, we can create a foundation for sustainable economic growth that does not come at the expense of our planet’s ecological health.

In conclusion, while economic growth is undoubtedly important, the protection of endangered species and biodiversity should be the priority in environmental policies. This approach ensures the long-term sustainability of our planet’s ecosystems, which ultimately supports both environmental and economic well-being. Governments and policymakers should strive to find innovative solutions that balance conservation efforts with sustainable economic development, recognizing that the two are not mutually exclusive but rather interdependent.

(Word count: 398)

Biodiversity Conservation Importance

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The debate between protecting endangered species and focusing on economic growth is a complex issue in environmental policies. Some people think we should prioritize saving endangered animals, while others believe economic development is more important. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support protecting endangered species argue that every animal is important for the environment. They say that losing even one species can harm the whole ecosystem. For example, if we lose bees, it could be very bad for plants and food production. Also, some endangered animals might have medicines we haven’t discovered yet. Once these animals are gone, we can’t bring them back, so it’s important to save them now.

On the other hand, people who think economic growth is more important say that we need money to protect the environment. They believe that if a country is richer, it can spend more on protecting nature. For instance, wealthy countries can invest in new technologies to help the environment. They also argue that poor countries often damage nature because they need resources to survive, so economic growth can help solve this problem.

In my opinion, I think we should focus more on protecting endangered species, but we shouldn’t ignore economic growth completely. The reason is that once a species is extinct, we can’t bring it back, but we can always find new ways to grow the economy. Also, protecting nature can actually help the economy through things like ecotourism. If we take care of endangered species, we’re also taking care of the environment that supports our economy.

To conclude, while economic growth is important, I believe protecting endangered species should be the main priority in environmental policies. We need to find ways to grow the economy that don’t harm nature. Governments should work on policies that protect animals and the environment while also supporting sustainable economic development.

(Word count: 309)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-structured, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free with only very occasional minor errors.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows a competent handling of the task, though with less sophistication than the Band 8-9 essay:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. The format is appropriate, and the conclusion reflects the position.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, and there is a clear overall progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical.
3. Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There may be some errors in word choice, spelling, and/or word formation, but these do not impede communication.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors in grammar and punctuation, but these rarely reduce communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
2. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
3. Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/ – the state or process of a species ceasing to exist
4. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
5. Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment and of wildlife
6. Ecotourism (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife
7. Irreversible (adjective) /ˌɪrɪˈvɜːsəbl/ – not able to be undone or altered
8. Interdependent (adjective) /ˌɪntədɪˈpendənt/ – (of two or more people or things) dependent on each other

Conclusion

The topic of biodiversity conservation in environmental policies is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

1. The role of individuals vs. governments in protecting endangered species
2. The impact of climate change on biodiversity
3. Balancing urban development with wildlife conservation
4. The economic benefits of preserving natural habitats

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the exam.