Ethical consumption and sustainability are increasingly important topics in our modern world, and they frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. This essay topic has been featured in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this type of task.
Ethical Consumption and Sustainability
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that consumers should avoid buying products from companies that are known to mistreat their employees or damage the environment. Others argue that consumers have no responsibility for a company’s practices. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the topic of ethical consumption and its relationship to sustainability. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that consumers should avoid unethical companies
- Discuss the opposing view that consumers are not responsible for company practices
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, one aimed at a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
In today’s globalized economy, the debate over consumer responsibility in ethical consumption has gained significant traction. While some argue that consumers should actively avoid supporting companies with questionable practices, others contend that the onus lies solely on the corporations themselves. In my opinion, consumers do bear a responsibility to make ethical choices, as their collective actions can drive significant change in corporate behavior and contribute to overall sustainability.
Those who advocate for ethical consumption argue that consumer choices have a powerful impact on corporate practices. By boycotting companies known for employee mistreatment or environmental degradation, consumers can exert economic pressure, forcing these entities to reform their policies. This view is supported by numerous historical examples, such as the consumer boycotts that led to improved working conditions in the garment industry. Furthermore, ethical consumption aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainability, as it encourages companies to adopt more environmentally friendly practices to maintain their customer base.
On the other hand, opponents of this view argue that placing the burden of corporate ethics on consumers is unrealistic and unfair. They contend that individuals often lack access to comprehensive information about company practices, making it difficult to make truly informed decisions. Additionally, economic constraints may limit many consumers’ ability to choose more expensive, ethically produced alternatives. This perspective suggests that regulation and corporate accountability should be the primary drivers of ethical business practices, rather than consumer choice.
While both arguments have merit, I believe that consumer responsibility is crucial in promoting ethical business practices and sustainability. Informed consumers can act as catalysts for change, using their purchasing power to support companies that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. This approach, combined with proper regulation, can create a powerful incentive for businesses to operate responsibly. Moreover, as consumers become more aware of their impact, they are likely to demand greater transparency from companies, leading to improved corporate accountability.
In conclusion, while the debate over consumer responsibility in ethical consumption is complex, I believe that consumers play a vital role in promoting sustainable and ethical business practices. By making conscious choices and demanding transparency, consumers can contribute significantly to a more sustainable and equitable global economy. It is essential, however, that this consumer responsibility is supported by robust regulations and corporate accountability measures to ensure comprehensive and lasting change.
(Word count: 368)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
In recent years, there has been a debate about whether consumers should avoid buying products from companies that mistreat their workers or harm the environment. Some people think consumers have a responsibility to make ethical choices, while others believe it’s not the consumer’s job to worry about company practices. In my opinion, consumers do have some responsibility, but it’s not the only solution to the problem.
People who support ethical consumption say that consumers can make a difference by choosing what they buy. If many people stop buying from companies that treat workers badly or pollute the environment, these companies might change their practices to win back customers. This can lead to better working conditions and less environmental damage. For example, some clothing companies have improved their factory conditions after customers complained about worker exploitation.
On the other hand, those who disagree argue that it’s too difficult for consumers to know about all company practices. They say that it’s the government’s job to make rules for companies, not the consumer’s responsibility. Also, some people might not be able to afford more expensive products from ethical companies, so it’s unfair to expect everyone to make these choices.
I believe that consumers can play a role in encouraging ethical business practices, but it shouldn’t be their sole responsibility. When possible, people should try to buy from companies that treat workers well and care for the environment. This can help create demand for ethically-made products. However, governments also need to make and enforce laws to protect workers and the environment. Companies themselves should take responsibility for their actions and be more transparent about their practices.
In conclusion, while consumers can contribute to promoting ethical business practices through their choices, it should be a combined effort with government regulations and corporate responsibility. This approach is more likely to create lasting change and lead to a more sustainable future.
(Word count: 309)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “exert economic pressure,” “global emphasis on sustainability,” and “catalysts for change.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still incorporates some topic-specific vocabulary.
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Grammar: Both essays use a mix of simple and complex sentences. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures and more sophisticated sentence formation.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow between ideas.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Ethical consumption (noun): The practice of purchasing products and services that are produced in ways that minimize social and/or environmental damage.
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Sustainability (noun): The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time without harming the environment or depleting resources.
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Corporate accountability (noun): The responsibility of a company to account for its actions and impacts on various stakeholders.
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Boycott (verb/noun): To stop buying or using a product or service as a form of protest; the act of boycotting.
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Transparency (noun): The quality of being open, honest, and easily understood, especially in business practices.
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Globalized economy (noun phrase): An interconnected economic system spanning multiple countries and regions.
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Environmental degradation (noun phrase): The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources or destruction of ecosystems.
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Catalysts for change (noun phrase): People or things that precipitate or accelerate a change or development.
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Economic constraints (noun phrase): Limitations or restrictions imposed by financial factors.
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Worker exploitation (noun phrase): The unfair treatment of workers, often involving poor working conditions or low wages.
Conclusion
Understanding the importance of ethical consumption in sustainability is crucial for tackling IELTS Writing Task 2 questions on this topic. By practicing with sample essays like these and familiarizing yourself with relevant vocabulary, you can improve your ability to construct well-reasoned arguments on this subject.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of government in promoting sustainable business practices
- The impact of consumer choices on global environmental issues
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
To further enhance your understanding of ethical consumption and sustainability, you may want to explore these related articles:
- Why Environmental Sustainability Should Be a Priority for All
- Why Ethical Consumerism is Key to Sustainable Living
- The Importance of Ethical Sourcing in the Fashion Industry
These resources will provide additional context and vocabulary to help you write more compelling essays on this important topic.
