Electronic waste management has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Similar to how to address the challenges of aging infrastructures, this environmental issue requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to analyze problems and propose solutions.
Task Analysis
Some people say that manufacturers should be required to repair their electronic products rather than produce new ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on manufacturers’ responsibility
- Discuss the relationship between repair and production
- Consider environmental and economic implications
- Provide supporting arguments and examples
Band 9 Sample Essay
The exponential growth of electronic waste has become a pressing environmental concern, and I strongly agree that manufacturers should be obligated to repair their products rather than continuously producing new ones. This approach would yield significant environmental and economic benefits.
Requiring manufacturers to repair products would substantially reduce electronic waste. When companies prioritize repairs, fewer devices end up in landfills, directly decreasing environmental pollution and resource depletion. For instance, major smartphone manufacturers could establish repair centers worldwide, enabling consumers to extend their devices’ lifespan instead of purchasing new models annually.
Furthermore, mandatory repair services would foster innovation in product design. Manufacturers would be compelled to create more durable and easily repairable products, moving away from the current trend of planned obsolescence. This shift would benefit consumers through longer-lasting products while reducing the environmental impact of electronic manufacturing.
However, implementation would require careful consideration. Companies would need to balance repair services with innovation and technological advancement. Additionally, repair infrastructure would need substantial investment, potentially affecting product prices initially. Nevertheless, the long-term benefits to both consumers and the environment would outweigh these challenges.
In conclusion, mandating manufacturers to repair electronic products represents a crucial step toward sustainable consumption. While this approach presents certain challenges, its potential to reduce environmental impact and promote responsible manufacturing practices makes it a worthwhile policy to pursue.
Professional repairing electronic devices in modern repair center
Band 7 Sample Essay
I believe that requiring manufacturers to repair their electronic products instead of producing new ones is generally a good idea, though it needs careful consideration.
One major advantage of mandatory repairs is environmental protection. When companies fix old devices, less electronic waste goes to landfills. For example, if mobile phone companies had to repair phones, fewer people would throw away their old devices, which would help reduce pollution.
The repair requirement could also save money for consumers. Getting devices fixed is usually cheaper than buying new ones. Moreover, this policy might make companies create better quality products that last longer, as they would be responsible for repairs.
However, there are some problems to consider. Companies might increase product prices to cover repair costs. Also, some technological advances might be slowed down if manufacturers focus more on repairs than new development.
In my opinion, despite these challenges, requiring manufacturers to repair products would benefit society and the environment more than it would cause problems. The government should implement this policy gradually to allow companies to adapt their business models.
Vocabulary Analysis
- exponential (adj) /ˌek.spəˈnen.ʃəl/ – increasing very quickly
- obsolescence (n) /ˌɒb.səˈles.əns/ – the process of becoming outdated
- mandatory (adj) /ˈmæn.də.tər.i/ – required by law
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ – basic systems and services
- sustainability (n) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bil.ə.ti/ – ability to continue without damaging the environment
Similar to how to address the challenges of providing universal healthcare, managing electronic waste requires comprehensive solutions and careful planning.
Future practice topics might include:
- The role of consumers in reducing electronic waste
- Government policies for sustainable electronics
- Technology recycling programs in developing countries
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
