Online shopping’s environmental impact has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms since 2019. Similar to the impact of technology on public trust, this theme reflects growing global concerns about digital transformation’s effects on our world.
Nội dung bài viết
Environmental impacts of online shopping showing packaging waste and delivery vehicles
Analysis of Topic and Question Types
Some people believe that online shopping has negative effects on the environment due to excessive packaging and increased transportation. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question type requires candidates to express and support their opinion about the environmental consequences of e-commerce, similar to discussions about role of digital marketing in influencing consumer behavior.
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The assertion that e-commerce adversely impacts our environment through packaging waste and transportation emissions is largely accurate, though the reality is more nuanced than it initially appears.
The primary environmental concerns of online shopping are indeed substantial. Firstly, the proliferation of individual packaging materials, particularly plastic and cardboard, has led to unprecedented waste generation. When consumers order multiple items separately, each requires its own protective packaging, multiplying the material usage compared to traditional retail. Secondly, the door-to-door delivery model necessitates numerous small-scale transportation trips, significantly increasing carbon emissions compared to consolidated retail shipments.
However, online shopping also offers some environmental benefits that warrant consideration. The elimination of physical retail spaces reduces energy consumption for lighting, heating, and cooling of stores. Additionally, when properly optimized, delivery routes can potentially reduce overall vehicle emissions compared to individual shopping trips. Furthermore, some e-commerce companies have begun implementing eco-friendly initiatives, such as recyclable packaging and electric delivery vehicles.
In my view, while online shopping currently poses significant environmental challenges, the solution lies not in dismissing it but in improving its sustainability. Companies should invest in biodegradable packaging, optimize delivery routes, and transition to electric vehicles. Consumers can also contribute by consolidating orders and choosing eco-friendly delivery options.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I agree that online shopping can harm the environment in several ways. This essay will discuss the main problems and some possible solutions.
The biggest problem is packaging waste. When people buy things online, each item comes in its own box or plastic wrap. This creates lots of garbage that goes to landfills. For example, if someone buys three items separately, they get three boxes instead of putting everything in one bag like in a normal shop. Another issue is transport. Delivery vans have to drive to many different houses, which uses more fuel and causes pollution.
However, some things about online shopping might help the environment. People don’t need to drive to shops, which could mean less car pollution. Also, some companies now use better packaging that can be recycled. But I think the bad effects are still bigger than the good ones.
To make things better, online shops should use less packaging and try to combine deliveries. Customers should also try to order several things together instead of making many small orders. This would help reduce waste and pollution.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response: Clear position with balanced discussion
- Coherence & Cohesion: Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary (“proliferation,” “unprecedented,” “consolidated”)
- Grammar: Complex structures with high accuracy
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response: Clear position but simpler development
- Coherence & Cohesion: Basic organization with some progression
- Lexical Resource: Adequate but less sophisticated vocabulary
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- Proliferation (n) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/ – rapid increase in numbers
- Unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – never known or done before
- Consolidate (v) /kənˈsɒlɪdeɪt/ – combine several things into one
- Biodegradable (adj) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of decomposing naturally
- Sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain at a certain level without depleting resources
Similar to discussions about how digital currencies affect global economies, this topic may appear in future tests focusing on technological impact on society and environment.
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes like The impact of technology on employment. Share your essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
