IELTS Writing Task 2: Why Sustainable Agriculture Practices Matter – Sample Essays and Analysis

Sustainable agriculture practices have become an increasingly important topic in recent years, not only in environmental discussions but also in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme touches on various aspects of modern farming, food production, and environmental conservation, making it a rich subject for IELTS candidates to explore. Based on recent trends and the frequency of appearance in past exams, we can expect this topic to continue being relevant in future IELTS tests.

Let’s examine a sample question that reflects the kind of task you might encounter in your IELTS Writing exam:

Some people believe that farmers should focus solely on producing more food to meet the growing global demand. Others argue that sustainable farming practices are more important for long-term food security. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on agriculture:

1. Farmers should prioritize increasing food production to meet global demand.
2. Sustainable farming practices are more crucial for long-term food security.

The task requires you to discuss both perspectives and provide your personal opinion. This type of question tests your ability to:

• Understand and present different viewpoints
• Analyze the implications of each approach
• Formulate and express your own opinion based on logical reasoning

Sustainable Agriculture Practices

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In an era of rapid population growth and environmental challenges, the debate between maximizing food production and implementing sustainable farming practices has become increasingly pertinent. While both approaches aim to address food security, they differ significantly in their long-term implications and overall impact on the environment and society. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this critical issue.

Proponents of increased food production argue that with the world’s population projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, farmers must focus on maximizing yield to meet the growing demand. They contend that modern agricultural techniques, including genetically modified crops and intensive farming methods, are necessary to prevent widespread food shortages and potential social unrest. This approach prioritizes short-term food security and economic stability.

On the other hand, advocates for sustainable farming practices emphasize the long-term viability of our food systems and the environment. They argue that conventional intensive farming depletes soil nutrients, contributes to water pollution, and reduces biodiversity. Sustainable methods, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and agroforestry, not only preserve the environment but also ensure continued productivity of agricultural land for future generations. Moreover, these practices often result in healthier, more nutritious food and can improve the livelihoods of small-scale farmers.

In my opinion, while the urgency of feeding a growing population cannot be ignored, the importance of sustainable agriculture practices cannot be overstated. The short-term gains of intensive farming are outweighed by the long-term consequences of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Sustainable practices offer a more holistic approach that balances immediate needs with future food security and environmental health.

Furthermore, recent advancements in sustainable agriculture have shown that it is possible to increase yields while minimizing environmental impact. For instance, precision farming techniques use technology to optimize resource use, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. These innovations demonstrate that sustainability and productivity are not mutually exclusive but can be complementary goals.

In conclusion, while the pressure to produce more food is undeniable, adopting sustainable agriculture practices is crucial for ensuring long-term food security and environmental preservation. By investing in research and implementing innovative sustainable techniques, we can meet current demands without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The path forward lies in striking a balance between productivity and sustainability, recognizing that our long-term survival depends on the health of our planet’s ecosystems.

(Word count: 398)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of whether farmers should focus on producing more food or adopt sustainable farming practices is a complex issue. Both approaches have their merits and drawbacks, and this essay will discuss both views before giving my opinion.

Those who believe farmers should concentrate on increasing food production argue that this is necessary to feed the growing world population. They say that modern farming methods, including the use of fertilizers and pesticides, can help produce more food quickly. This view is based on the idea that hunger is a major problem in many parts of the world, and increasing food production is the best way to solve it.

On the other hand, supporters of sustainable farming practices argue that these methods are better for long-term food security. They believe that conventional farming can harm the environment by depleting soil nutrients and polluting water sources. Sustainable practices, such as crop rotation and organic farming, can help preserve the land for future use while still producing enough food. They also say that sustainable farming can produce healthier food and help small farmers earn a better living.

In my opinion, while producing more food is important, sustainable farming practices are more crucial for long-term food security. I believe that short-term gains in food production should not come at the cost of long-term environmental damage. Sustainable methods can help ensure that we can continue to produce food in the future without harming the planet.

Moreover, sustainable farming can often be just as productive as conventional methods when done correctly. For example, using natural pest control methods can be as effective as chemical pesticides without the negative side effects. This shows that we don’t have to choose between producing more food and protecting the environment – we can do both.

In conclusion, while both views have their merits, I believe that sustainable farming practices are more important for ensuring long-term food security. By adopting these methods, we can meet our current food needs while also preserving the environment for future generations.

(Word count: 329)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a high band score.

2. Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. For example:

   • Band 8-9: “The short-term gains of intensive farming are outweighed by the long-term consequences of environmental degradation and resource depletion.”
   • Band 6-7: “Short-term gains in food production should not come at the cost of long-term environmental damage.”

3. Development of Ideas: The higher band essay provides more detailed explanations and examples, demonstrating a deeper understanding of the topic. The Band 6-7 essay, while coherent, offers less depth in its analysis.

4. Cohesion and Coherence: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated use of cohesive devices.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the Band 8-9 essay offers a more nuanced and well-supported argument.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

2. Food security (noun phrase) /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/: The state of having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.

3. Agroforestry (noun) /ˌæɡrəʊˈfɒrɪstri/: A land use management system in which trees or shrubs are grown around or among crops or pastureland.

4. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.

5. Intensive farming (noun phrase) /ɪnˈtensɪv ˈfɑːmɪŋ/: A method of farming aimed at increasing productivity through the heavy use of chemicals, labor, and capital.

6. Crop rotation (noun phrase) /krɒp rəʊˈteɪʃn/: The practice of growing different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons.

7. Genetically modified (adjective) /dʒəˈnetɪkli ˈmɒdɪfaɪd/: Containing genetic material that has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.

8. Precision farming (noun phrase) /prɪˈsɪʒn ˈfɑːmɪŋ/: A farming management concept based on observing, measuring and responding to inter and intra-field variability in crops.

In conclusion, the topic of sustainable agriculture practices is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Future questions might explore related themes such as the impact of climate change on agriculture, the role of technology in sustainable farming, or the economic implications of transitioning to more sustainable practices. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these topics, focusing on developing well-structured arguments and using appropriate vocabulary. Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further improvement.