Climate change and its effects on infrastructure has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, this theme has a high probability of appearing in future tests, particularly given its global relevance and growing importance in The effects of climate change on urban infrastructure.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this topic:
Some people believe that governments should invest heavily in adapting infrastructure to cope with climate change, while others argue that resources should focus on preventing climate change instead. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two contrasting approaches to dealing with climate change
- Consider infrastructure adaptation versus prevention measures
- Present and support their own viewpoint
- Provide relevant examples and explanations
Climate change effects on infrastructure adaptation and prevention measures
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate between adapting to climate change and preventing it has become increasingly crucial as we witness its growing impact on infrastructure. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced combination of both strategies is essential for addressing this global challenge.
Those who advocate for infrastructure adaptation argue that climate change effects are already inevitable and require immediate action. For example, coastal cities like Rotterdam have invested billions in flood defense systems and elevated buildings to protect against rising sea levels, demonstrating how the effects of climate change on coastal cities demand robust infrastructural responses. Such adaptations ensure immediate protection for vulnerable communities and critical facilities.
Conversely, proponents of prevention emphasize that without addressing root causes, adaptation will become increasingly costly and ultimately insufficient. They argue that investments in renewable energy and The impact of electric vehicles on reducing fossil fuel dependency would be more effective long-term solutions. This approach could prevent further infrastructure damage and reduce the need for costly adaptations in the future.
In my view, governments should pursue both strategies simultaneously. While adaptation is necessary for immediate protection, prevention is crucial for long-term sustainability. This balanced approach would involve allocating resources to both strengthen existing infrastructure and implement emissions reduction measures, ensuring comprehensive climate resilience.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Climate change is affecting our infrastructure in many ways, and people have different opinions about how to solve this problem. I will discuss both views about spending money on adaptation or prevention.
Some people think governments should spend money to adapt infrastructure for climate change. They say we need to protect buildings and roads from floods and storms now. For example, many cities are building stronger sea walls and drainage systems to stop flooding. This helps keep people safe right now.
Other people believe it’s better to stop climate change from getting worse. They want to spend money on things like solar power and electric cars to reduce pollution. This could help prevent more damage to buildings and roads in the future. It might also save money because we won’t need to fix so many things later.
I think both ideas are important, but prevention is better. While we need some adaptation now, stopping climate change will help more in the long run. Governments should focus more on preventing climate change while still doing some adaptation work.
Climate change prevention strategies and their implementation in urban areas
Scoring Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay
- Strong coherence and cohesion with clear progression
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “inevitable,” “robust,” “vulnerable”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear position with well-developed arguments
- Relevant examples and explanations
Band 6-7 Essay
- Basic coherence with simple organization
- Adequate vocabulary with some repetition
- Mix of simple and complex sentences
- Clear but simpler arguments
- Basic examples
Key Vocabulary
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical structures needed for society
- Adaptation (n) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – process of changing to suit new conditions
- Mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – action of reducing severity
- Resilience (n) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – ability to recover quickly
- Vulnerability (n) /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/ – susceptibility to damage
For further practice, consider writing about similar topics like The effects of climate change on national security. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
