Environmental reform has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. This reflects the growing global concern about how climate science is reshaping global policies. Let’s analyze a common question type and examine sample responses across different band scores.
Environmental reforms and their impact on global climate change
Question Analysis
Some people believe that environmental reforms should be led by governments, while others think that individuals should take responsibility for protecting the environment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of two perspectives
- Clear position statement
- Relevant examples
- Balanced analysis
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
The debate over whether environmental protection should be government-led or individually driven has gained significant attention as how climate change influences global migration patterns becomes more evident. While both approaches have merit, I believe a combination of governmental and individual efforts is essential for effective environmental reform.
Government-led initiatives are crucial due to their broad reach and regulatory power. When authorities implement strict pollution controls and invest in how renewable energy can address global poverty, they create systematic change. For instance, China’s recent environmental policies have significantly reduced air pollution in major cities through industrial regulations and investment in clean energy infrastructure.
However, individual responsibility plays an equally vital role. Personal choices regarding consumption, transportation, and waste management collectively impact environmental outcomes. In Singapore, public awareness campaigns have successfully encouraged citizens to reduce plastic usage and participate in recycling programs, demonstrating how individual actions can create meaningful change.
I contend that the most effective approach combines both perspectives. Governments should establish frameworks and policies, while individuals must actively participate in environmental protection efforts. This synergy ensures comprehensive environmental reform that addresses both systemic issues and personal responsibilities.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Environmental protection is a big issue today. Some people think governments should lead environmental reforms, while others believe individuals are responsible. I think both sides have good points.
Government leadership is important because they have power to make big changes. They can make laws about pollution and force companies to follow environmental rules. For example, many countries now have laws about plastic bags and factory emissions. This helps reduce pollution faster than individual actions alone.
Individual responsibility is also important. People can do many things like recycling, using less electricity, and choosing public transport. When many people make these choices, it helps the environment. In my country, more people now bring their own shopping bags and this has reduced plastic waste.
I believe both government and individuals must work together. Governments should make good policies and people should follow them. This way we can protect the environment better.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary (regulatory power, systematic change)
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization
- Specific examples
- Cohesive devices
- Academic tone
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Some examples
- Basic organization
- Limited cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary
- Environmental reforms (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl rɪˈfɔːmz/ – Changes made to protect the environment
- Regulatory power (n) /ˈreɡjʊleɪtəri ˈpaʊə/ – Authority to control or direct through rules
- Systematic change (n) /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk tʃeɪndʒ/ – Organized, comprehensive transformation
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – Basic physical systems of a country
- Consumption (n) /kənˈsʌmpʃən/ – The use of resources
Conclusion
Environmental reform topics remain crucial in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practice with similar questions such as:
- The role of international cooperation in environmental protection
- Environmental education in schools
- Economic growth versus environmental protection
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
