Ethical consumption has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This trend reflects the growing global awareness of sustainable and responsible consumer behavior. As a result, test-takers are more likely to encounter questions related to ethical consumption in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question and analyze sample essays to help you prepare for this topic.
Analyzing the Question
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards ethical consumption, with more people choosing to buy products that are environmentally friendly or produced under fair labor conditions. Why do you think this trend is occurring, and do you think it will continue in the future?
This question asks you to discuss the reasons behind the rise of ethical consumption and predict its future trajectory. To answer effectively, you should:
- Explain the factors driving the trend towards ethical consumption
- Provide your opinion on whether this trend will continue
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards ethical consumption, with consumers increasingly opting for products that are environmentally sustainable and produced under fair labor conditions. This essay will explore the reasons behind this trend and assess its likelihood of continuing in the future.
The rise of ethical consumption can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, there is growing awareness of environmental issues, such as climate change and pollution, which has led consumers to seek out eco-friendly alternatives. For instance, the popularity of reusable shopping bags and water bottles has surged as people become more conscious of plastic waste. Secondly, social media and digital platforms have made it easier for consumers to access information about companies’ practices and the origins of products. This transparency has empowered consumers to make more informed choices and support businesses that align with their values.
Moreover, there is an increasing recognition of the social impact of consumption. Many consumers are now concerned about fair labor practices and are willing to pay a premium for products that ensure workers are treated ethically. This shift is evident in the growing demand for Fair Trade certified goods, which guarantee fair wages and safe working conditions for producers in developing countries.
Looking to the future, it is highly likely that this trend will continue and even accelerate. As environmental challenges become more pressing and visible, consumers will likely feel a greater sense of responsibility to make sustainable choices. Additionally, as younger generations, who tend to be more environmentally and socially conscious, gain more purchasing power, they will drive further demand for ethical products.
Furthermore, advancements in technology and production methods may make ethical products more affordable and accessible, removing one of the main barriers to widespread adoption. For example, innovations in renewable energy and recycling technologies could lead to more cost-effective and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.
In conclusion, the trend towards ethical consumption is driven by increased awareness, access to information, and a growing sense of social responsibility. Given the ongoing environmental and social challenges facing our world, coupled with technological advancements, it is highly probable that this trend will not only continue but gain momentum in the years to come.
(Word count: 340)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, more and more people are choosing to buy products that are good for the environment or made by workers who are treated fairly. This essay will discuss why this trend is happening and if it will continue in the future.
There are several reasons why ethical consumption is becoming more popular. Firstly, people are more aware of environmental problems like pollution and climate change. This makes them want to buy things that don’t harm the planet. For example, many people now use reusable bags instead of plastic ones when they go shopping. Secondly, social media has made it easier for people to learn about how products are made. When people see videos or read articles about poor working conditions in factories, they want to support companies that treat workers well.
Another reason is that some people feel good about themselves when they buy ethical products. They think they are making a positive difference in the world. This feeling encourages them to continue buying these types of products.
I believe this trend will continue in the future. As environmental problems get worse, more people will want to do their part to help. Also, younger people seem to care more about these issues, so as they grow up and have more money to spend, they will probably choose ethical products.
However, there are some challenges. Ethical products are often more expensive, which can make it difficult for some people to afford them. But if more people buy these products, the prices might go down in the future.
In conclusion, ethical consumption is growing because of increased awareness, easy access to information, and people’s desire to make a positive impact. Despite some challenges, I think this trend will continue to grow in the coming years.
(Word count: 295)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.
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Examples: Both essays provide relevant examples to support their arguments, but the Band 8-9 essay offers more specific and varied examples.
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Analysis: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates deeper analysis and more complex reasoning, while the Band 6-7 essay presents a more straightforward explanation of the trend.
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Coherence: Both essays maintain coherence throughout, but the Band 8-9 essay shows stronger logical flow and connection between ideas.
Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some key vocabulary items related to ethical consumption that you can use in your essays:
- Sustainable (adjective, /səˈsteɪnəbl/): able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources
- Fair Trade (noun, /feə(r) treɪd/): a system of trading that ensures producers in developing countries receive fair payment and good working conditions
- Eco-friendly (adjective, /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/): not harmful to the environment
- Transparency (noun, /trænsˈpærənsi/): the quality of being open and honest, especially in business practices
- Empowerment (noun, /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/): the process of giving people more control over their lives or situations
- Conscious consumerism (noun phrase, /ˈkɒnʃəs kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/): the practice of buying products with consideration for their environmental and social impact
- Ethical sourcing (noun phrase, /ˈeθɪkl ˈsɔːsɪŋ/): obtaining goods and services in a responsible and sustainable way
- Carbon footprint (noun phrase, /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/): the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of an individual’s or organization’s activities
Conclusion
The topic of ethical consumption is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays due to its growing importance in global discussions. To prepare for this topic, practice writing essays that analyze the reasons behind this trend and its potential future development. Use a mix of personal opinions, factual information, and relevant examples to support your arguments.
For further practice, consider writing an essay on the following related topics:
- The role of government in promoting ethical consumption
- The impact of ethical consumption on developing countries’ economies
- The challenges of implementing ethical production practices in global supply chains
Remember to use appropriate vocabulary and maintain a clear structure in your essays. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners.