Water pollution has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, particularly in environmental and social impact topics. Based on analysis of past exams and Pollution: types and prevention, this theme has appeared in approximately 15% of environmental-focused questions since 2019.
Water pollution poses significant challenges to environmental sustainability
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Task 2 question that exemplifies this topic:
Water pollution is becoming a major problem in many countries. What are the causes of this issue and what measures can governments and individuals take to tackle it?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires a two-part response:
- Causes of water pollution
- Solutions at both governmental and individual levels
Similar to the impact of climate change on global water resources, this topic demands a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges.
Band 9 Sample Essay (290 words)
Water pollution has emerged as a critical environmental challenge, threatening ecosystems and human health worldwide. This essay will examine its primary causes and propose effective solutions at both governmental and individual levels.
The main causes of water pollution are manifold. Industrial discharge represents a significant contributor, with factories releasing untreated effluents directly into water bodies. Additionally, agricultural runoff containing pesticides and fertilizers contaminates rivers and groundwater. Urban development also plays a crucial role, as inadequate sewage treatment systems in many cities result in the discharge of untreated wastewater into natural water sources.
To address these challenges, governments must implement stringent regulations and enforcement measures. Authorities should impose heavy penalties on industries violating environmental standards and invest in modern water treatment facilities. Moreover, like successful how can recycling programs reduce environmental pollution, governments should establish comprehensive water management programs.
Individuals can also contribute significantly to reducing water pollution. Using environmentally friendly household products, properly disposing of waste, and minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers in gardening are effective measures. Furthermore, supporting local environmental initiatives and participating in community clean-up efforts can create substantial positive impact.
The combined efforts of governments and individuals are essential for tackling water pollution effectively. While governmental policies provide the framework for change, individual actions ensure its successful implementation at the grassroots level.
Band 7 Sample Essay (275 words)
Water pollution has become a serious problem affecting many countries today. This essay will discuss its main causes and suggest solutions that both governments and individuals can implement.
There are several key reasons for increasing water pollution. Firstly, many factories dump their waste directly into rivers and seas without proper treatment. Secondly, farmers use too many chemicals on their crops, which wash into waterways. Also, in many cities, garbage and sewage are not properly managed, leading to water contamination.
Government action is crucial in solving this problem. They should create strict laws to stop factories from polluting water sources and make sure these laws are properly enforced. Like efforts to Reduce plastic pollution: possible ways?, governments should also invest money in better waste treatment systems and educate people about water protection.
Individual citizens can also help reduce water pollution. People should be more careful about what they throw away and how they dispose of household chemicals. They can also use fewer chemical products at home and support environmental protection programs in their communities.
In conclusion, while water pollution is a complex problem, it can be addressed through combined efforts from both governments and individuals.
Key Vocabulary
- effluents (n) /ˈefluənt/ – liquid waste or sewage discharged into a river or the sea
- contaminate (v) /kənˈtæmɪneɪt/ – to make something impure by exposure to or addition of harmful substances
- stringent (adj) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – strict, precise, and exacting
- grassroots (n) /ˈɡræsruːts/ – the most basic level of an activity or organization
Advanced Sentence Structures
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“While governmental policies provide the framework for change, individual actions ensure its successful implementation at the grassroots level.”
- Structure: While + clause, main clause (contrast relationship)
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“Industrial discharge represents a significant contributor, with factories releasing untreated effluents directly into water bodies.”
- Structure: Main clause + with + participle phrase (additional information)
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“To address these challenges, governments must implement stringent regulations and enforcement measures.”
- Structure: Infinitive phrase (purpose) + main clause
In summary, the Band 9 essay demonstrates sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and clear organization, while the Band 7 essay shows good control of language with some advanced features but less sophistication. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback!
