Climate change and its economic implications have become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, appearing in approximately 15% of recent test papers. This topic’s frequency reflects its global significance and relevance to The need for global climate agreements. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this theme.
Some people believe that climate change will have a devastating impact on the global economy, while others think it may create new economic opportunities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of Question Requirements
- Task: Discuss both perspectives and provide personal opinion
- Key themes: Economic impacts of climate change (both negative and positive)
- Focus areas: Global economy, environmental challenges, business opportunities
Climate change affects various sectors of global economy
Band 9 Sample Essay
The debate over climate change’s economic consequences has intensified, with divergent views on whether it presents catastrophic risks or potential opportunities. In my opinion, while certain sectors may benefit, the overall economic impact will be predominantly negative without decisive global action.
Those who foresee devastating economic impacts point to several compelling factors. Firstly, effects of climate change on rural jobs demonstrate how extreme weather events can destroy agricultural productivity and displace millions of workers. Additionally, rising sea levels threaten coastal infrastructure worth billions of dollars, while increased natural disasters strain insurance markets and public resources.
However, proponents of economic opportunities highlight emerging sectors. The renewable energy industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, creating numerous jobs and investment opportunities. Similarly, innovations in sustainable technology and green infrastructure are spawning new markets and business models. Companies focusing on climate adaptation solutions are also finding profitable niches.
I believe that while these opportunities are real, they cannot fully offset the massive economic disruption climate change causes. The transition costs and adaptation requirements far outweigh potential benefits, particularly for developing nations. Moreover, impact of foreign exchange on imports shows how climate-related market instability can trigger broader economic challenges.
Therefore, maximizing economic opportunities while minimizing devastating impacts requires immediate global cooperation and investment in sustainable solutions. (276 words)
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Climate change is affecting the world economy in different ways. Some people think it will damage the economy very badly, but others see new chances to make money. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
On the negative side, climate change causes many problems for the economy. When there are more storms and floods, it costs lot of money to fix buildings and roads. Farmers cannot grow crops well when the weather changes too much, which makes food prices go up. Also, many businesses near the sea might have to move because of rising water levels.
However, some people see good opportunities in this situation. Companies that make solar panels and wind turbines are growing fast and hiring many workers. New types of farming that use less water are becoming popular. Some companies are making money by helping others protect their buildings from extreme weather.
In my opinion, climate change will probably hurt the economy more than help it. Even though some businesses will make money from new opportunities, most companies and people will have to spend lots of money dealing with problems caused by climate change. Poor countries will have the hardest time because they don’t have enough money to protect themselves.
I think we need to work together to stop climate change from getting worse, while also taking advantage of new business opportunities that help the environment. (190 words)
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “unprecedented,” “strain,” “adaptation”
- Complex sentence structures with proper linking
- Cohesive arguments with clear progression
- Balanced discussion with well-supported points
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Some linking words used correctly
- Main ideas presented logically
- Informal tone occasionally
Key Vocabulary
- unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never having happened before
- devastating (adj) /ˈdev.ə.steɪ.tɪŋ/ – causing severe damage or destruction
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ – basic physical systems of a country
- adaptation (n) /ˌæd.æpˈteɪ.ʃən/ – the process of changing to suit different conditions
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ – able to continue over time without damaging the environment
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- Complex Contrast: “While certain sectors may benefit, the overall economic impact will be predominantly negative…”
- Cause-Effect: “Rising sea levels threaten coastal infrastructure worth billions of dollars, which in turn affects…”
- Conditional: “Without decisive global action, the economic consequences could prove catastrophic…”
I encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback. Focus on developing clear arguments and using appropriate academic vocabulary while maintaining coherent structure throughout your response.
