Chemical pollution has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of environmental-themed questions between 2019-2023. Based on analysis of past papers, here are key questions that have appeared:
Some people believe that the best way to reduce chemical pollution is for governments to impose strict regulations on companies. Others think companies should take voluntary action. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Industrial factory releasing chemical emissions into environment
Essay Analysis
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting approaches to reducing chemical pollution
- Clear position statement
- Well-supported arguments for both views
- Personal opinion with justification
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
The debate over how to best control chemical pollution has intensified as environmental concerns grow. While some advocate for strict government oversight, others believe voluntary corporate action is more effective. In my view, a combination of both approaches is necessary for optimal results.
Proponents of government regulation argue that only legally-binding measures can ensure companies prioritize environmental protection over profits. Strict penalties and mandatory emission limits force businesses to invest in cleaner technologies and waste management systems. For instance, after China implemented rigorous chemical disposal laws in 2015, industrial water pollution decreased by 30% within three years. Additionally, government oversight creates a level playing field where all companies must meet the same standards.
However, those favoring voluntary corporate action contend that companies are better positioned to develop innovative solutions. When businesses willingly embrace environmental responsibility, they often exceed minimum requirements and pioneer breakthrough technologies. The voluntary adoption of green chemistry principles by major pharmaceutical companies has led to significant reductions in toxic waste generation. Moreover, market pressures and consumer awareness increasingly reward environmentally conscious businesses.
In my opinion, the most effective approach combines mandatory baseline standards with incentives for voluntary improvement. Government regulations should establish minimum acceptable levels of chemical pollution, while tax benefits and public recognition can motivate companies to exceed these standards. This dual strategy ensures basic environmental protection while fostering innovation and corporate responsibility.
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Chemical pollution is a serious problem that needs to be solved. There are different ideas about how to reduce it, and I will discuss these views.
Some people think the government should make strict rules for companies. This is because companies often care more about making money than protecting the environment. When there are strong laws, companies must follow them or pay fines. For example, factories have to treat their waste water properly before releasing it. This helps keep rivers and lakes clean.
Other people believe companies should decide for themselves how to reduce pollution. They say companies know their own processes best and can find good ways to be cleaner. Some companies want to show customers they care about the environment. They might use better technology or change their manufacturing process to create less pollution.
I think both ideas have good points, but government rules are more important. While some companies will act responsibly on their own, others will not unless they are forced to. Therefore, having strict laws is necessary to protect our environment.
Key Vocabulary
- rigorous (adj) /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – very strict and careful
- emission (n) /ɪˈmɪʃən/ – the act of releasing something
- pioneering (adj) /ˌpaɪəˈnɪrɪŋ/ – being the first to do something new
- incentive (n) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – something that encourages people to do something
- baseline (n) /ˈbeɪslaɪn/ – minimum or starting point
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- Complex Causation: “While some companies will act responsibly on their own, others will not unless they are forced to.”
- Parallel Structure: “Government regulations should establish minimum acceptable levels, while tax benefits can motivate companies to exceed these standards.”
- Conditional Statement: “When businesses willingly embrace environmental responsibility, they often exceed minimum requirements.”
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Focus on using the vocabulary and sentence patterns provided while developing your unique perspective on the issue.
