Ethical consumerism and sustainability are increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exam questions and current global trends, it’s highly likely that these themes will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that reflects this important subject matter.
Some people believe that consumers should avoid buying products from companies that are known to use unethical practices. Others argue that this responsibility lies with the government and businesses themselves. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question addresses the role of ethical consumerism in promoting sustainable and responsible business practices. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that consumers should boycott unethical companies
- Examine the perspective that governments and businesses should be responsible
- Provide a personal opinion on the issue
Let’s look at two sample essays addressing this topic, one aimed at a Band 7-8 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 7-8)
In today’s globalized economy, the ethical practices of businesses have come under increasing scrutiny. While some argue that consumers should take the lead in boycotting companies with questionable ethics, others believe this responsibility should fall on governments and the businesses themselves. In my opinion, a combination of consumer action and regulatory oversight is necessary to effectively address this issue.
Those who advocate for consumer-driven change argue that purchasing decisions can be a powerful tool for influencing corporate behavior. By voting with their wallets, consumers can send a clear message to companies that unethical practices will not be tolerated. This approach has seen success in various industries, from fair trade coffee to environmentally friendly clothing. Moreover, in the age of social media, consumer activism can quickly gain momentum and force companies to reconsider their policies.
On the other hand, proponents of government and business-led responsibility point out that individual consumers often lack the information or resources to make fully informed decisions. They argue that governments should enact and enforce stringent regulations on business practices, ensuring a level playing field for all companies. Additionally, businesses themselves should be held accountable for their actions through corporate social responsibility initiatives and transparent reporting.
In my view, the most effective approach combines both perspectives. While consumer activism can drive change, it must be supported by robust governmental oversight and corporate accountability. Governments should provide clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms for ethical business practices, while also empowering consumers with information through mandatory labeling and disclosure requirements. Simultaneously, businesses should proactively adopt ethical practices, recognizing that long-term sustainability often aligns with ethical behavior.
In conclusion, addressing unethical business practices requires a multi-faceted approach. By leveraging the power of consumer choice, governmental regulation, and corporate responsibility, we can create a more sustainable and ethical global economy.
(Word count: 298)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The issue of unethical business practices is a big problem in today’s world. Some people think that consumers should stop buying from companies that do bad things, while others say it’s the job of governments and businesses to fix this. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Firstly, many people believe that consumers have the power to change how companies behave. If people stop buying products from companies that use child labor or damage the environment, these companies will lose money and might change their ways. For example, some clothing brands have improved their factory conditions because customers complained. This shows that consumers can make a difference.
However, others argue that it’s not fair to expect consumers to solve this problem. They say that governments should make strict rules for companies and punish those who break them. Also, businesses themselves should take responsibility for their actions and be more ethical. This view makes sense because not all consumers have enough information or money to always make ethical choices.
In my opinion, both consumers and governments have important roles to play. Consumers can choose to buy from good companies when possible, but governments need to make laws to protect workers and the environment. Businesses should also try to be more ethical because it’s the right thing to do and can help them in the long run.
To conclude, I believe that a combination of consumer action, government rules, and business responsibility is needed to solve the problem of unethical business practices. Everyone has a part to play in making the world more fair and sustainable.
(Word count: 262)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Grammar and Vocabulary
For a Band 7-8 essay:
- Use a variety of complex sentence structures
- Employ advanced vocabulary accurately
- Utilize linking words effectively to enhance coherence
Example: “While consumer activism can drive change, it must be supported by robust governmental oversight and corporate accountability.”
For a Band 6-7 essay:
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Incorporate some advanced vocabulary, even if not always perfectly
- Use basic linking words to connect ideas
Example: “If people stop buying products from companies that use child labor or damage the environment, these companies will lose money and might change their ways.”
Structure and Coherence
- Ensure a clear introduction that addresses all parts of the question
- Develop each main idea in separate paragraphs
- Use a concluding paragraph to summarize and give a final opinion
- Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas within and between paragraphs
Task Response
- Address all parts of the question fully
- Provide relevant examples to support your arguments
- Clearly state your own opinion and justify it
Challenging Vocabulary to Remember
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Ethical consumerism (noun) /ˈeθɪkəl kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/: The practice of purchasing products and services that are produced in a way that minimizes social and/or environmental damage.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time without depleting resources or causing environmental damage.
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Corporate social responsibility (noun) /ˈkɔːpərət ˈsəʊʃəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/: A company’s commitment to manage the social, environmental and economic effects of its operations responsibly.
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Transparency (noun) /trænsˈpærənsi/: The quality of being open, honest, and easily understood in business practices.
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Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/: The fact or condition of being responsible for one’s actions and decisions.
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Boycott (verb) /ˈbɔɪkɒt/: To refuse to buy, use, or participate in something as a way of protesting.
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Stringent (adjective) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/: Strict, precise, and exacting.
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Proactively (adverb) /prəʊˈæktɪvli/: In a way that creates or controls a situation rather than just responding to it after it has happened.
Conclusion
The topic of ethical consumerism and its importance for sustainability is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individual actions in addressing global environmental issues
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
- The effectiveness of consumer boycotts in changing corporate behavior
- The impact of social media on corporate accountability
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and always support your arguments with relevant examples. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!