Urbanization and its environmental impacts have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past decade. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this topic has appeared approximately 15-20% of the time, making it highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Understanding The effects of urbanization on health and environment is crucial for achieving a high band score.
Urban landscape showing effects of urbanization on environment
Sample Question Analysis
Some people think that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve, and that governments should be responsible for solving these issues. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires candidates to discuss individual versus governmental responsibility in addressing environmental challenges, particularly those related to effects of urbanization on natural habitats.
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Urban development has led to numerous environmental challenges, raising questions about who bears the primary responsibility for addressing these issues. While governments certainly play a crucial role, I firmly believe that both individual actions and governmental measures are essential for effective environmental protection.
Governments possess the authority and resources to implement large-scale environmental policies. They can enforce regulations on industrial emissions, mandate sustainable building practices, and invest in green infrastructure. For instance, Singapore’s government has successfully integrated environmental conservation into urban planning through strict pollution controls and extensive green space requirements. Such comprehensive approaches demonstrate how governmental action can create sustainable urban environments.
However, individual participation is equally vital. Personal choices regarding transportation, waste management, and energy consumption collectively impact environmental quality. When citizens actively engage in recycling programs, choose public transport, or adopt energy-efficient practices, they contribute significantly to environmental preservation. The success of community-led initiatives in cities like Copenhagen, where cycling has become a predominant mode of transport, illustrates the power of individual action.
People engaging in environmental conservation activities
Furthermore, the most effective environmental solutions emerge when governments and individuals work in tandem. Government policies are more successful when supported by an environmentally conscious population, while individual efforts are amplified by supportive governmental frameworks. The remarkable improvement in The effects of air pollution on health in many European cities exemplifies this synergy.
In conclusion, while governments must provide leadership and infrastructure for environmental protection, individual actions are equally crucial. The most effective approach combines both governmental and individual responsibility, creating a comprehensive solution to environmental challenges.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Environmental problems are becoming more serious in many countries today, and people have different opinions about who should solve these problems. I think both governments and individuals need to work together to protect our environment.
Governments have important responsibilities for the environment. They can make laws to stop pollution and protect nature. For example, they can fine companies that pollute the air or water. They also have money to build things like recycling centers and clean energy systems. Without government action, many environmental problems would be worse.
The effects of urbanization on mental health show why individuals also need to help. People can do many small things like using less plastic, saving water, and using public transport. These small actions become big when many people do them. In my city, when people started recycling more, the amount of waste in landfills decreased a lot.
Sometimes governments and people need to work together. If the government builds bicycle lanes but nobody uses them, it doesn’t help. If people want to recycle but have no recycling bins, they can’t do it. Both sides need to help each other.
In conclusion, I think environmental problems need both government and individual action. Neither can solve these problems alone, so they must work together.
Key Vocabulary
- Environmental conservation (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl kɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – the protection of nature
- Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over time without damaging the environment
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic systems and services needed in a society
- Synergy (n) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – combined effect greater than individual parts
- Mandate (v) /mænˈdeɪt/ – to officially require something
- Amplify (v) /ˈæmplɪfaɪ/ – to increase or strengthen
- Framework (n) /ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – basic structure of a system
- Landfill (n) /ˈlændfɪl/ – area where waste is buried
Practice Suggestion
Practice writing essays on these related topics:
- The role of technology in solving environmental problems
- Urban planning and environmental protection
- Balance between development and conservation
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
