IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: The Role of Corporations in Environmental Sustainability (Band 6-9)

Corporate environmental responsibility has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme is likely to remain prominent, particularly regarding sustainability practices and environmental regulations.

the role of ethical consumerism in promoting sustainability has shown that questions about corporate environmental responsibility frequently appear in various forms. Let’s examine a recent IELTS task 2 question:

Some people believe that corporations should be required by law to protect the environment, while others think companies should have the freedom to choose their environmental policies. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires:

• Discussion of both perspectives
• Clear personal stance
• Examples and supporting evidence
• Balanced argument structure

Corporate leaders discussing environmental policies in modern boardroom

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)

In today’s global economy, the debate over mandatory environmental regulations for businesses versus voluntary compliance has become increasingly significant. While both approaches have their merits, I believe that legal requirements are essential for ensuring corporate environmental responsibility.

Those who advocate for corporate freedom argue that companies should have autonomy in determining their environmental policies. They contend that market forces and consumer preferences will naturally drive businesses toward sustainable practices. For instance, companies like Tesla and Patagonia have voluntarily adopted strong environmental policies, which have not only benefited the environment but also enhanced their market position and profitability.

However, corporate accountability for environmental sustainability is too crucial to be left to voluntary measures alone. Mandatory environmental regulations ensure a level playing field and prevent the “tragedy of the commons” scenario where individual profit-seeking behavior leads to collective environmental degradation. The success of emissions regulations in reducing air pollution in major cities demonstrates the effectiveness of legal requirements.

Furthermore, Should governments impose a cap on carbon emissions for corporations? This question becomes particularly relevant when considering that many companies might prioritize short-term profits over long-term environmental sustainability without legal oversight. Historical evidence shows that significant environmental improvements often result from regulatory intervention rather than voluntary corporate initiatives.

In conclusion, while corporate freedom in environmental policy-making has some advantages, the critical nature of environmental protection necessitates legal requirements. A balanced approach combining mandatory standards with incentives for exceeding these requirements would be most effective in ensuring corporate environmental responsibility.

Companies implementing environmental protection measures

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)

Environmental protection is a big issue today, and people have different ideas about how companies should deal with it. Some think laws should force companies to protect the environment, while others believe companies should choose their own policies.

Companies that want freedom say they can make better decisions about environmental protection. They think that if customers want green products, businesses will naturally become more environmental friendly. Some big companies already do good things for the environment without being forced.

On the other hand, many people think laws are needed because not all companies care about the environment. Without rules, some businesses might pollute more to save money. For example, in many countries, pollution got better only after governments made strict rules.

I think laws are necessary to protect the environment. While some companies do good things voluntarily, many others need rules to make them act responsibly. The environment is too important to leave to chance.

Key Vocabulary

1. Corporate autonomy (n) /ˌkɔːrpərət ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom of business action
2. Environmental degradation (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – deterioration of environment
3. Regulatory intervention (n) /ˌreɡjələtɔːri ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – government involvement through rules
4. Mandatory standards (n) /ˈmændətɔːri ˈstændədz/ – required levels of compliance
5. Level playing field (idiom) /ˈlevl ˈpleɪɪŋ fiːld/ – fair competition conditions

High-scoring Sentence Patterns

1. “While both approaches have their merits, I believe that…” (Concession + Opinion structure)
2. “Not only… but also…” (Parallel structure emphasizing dual benefits)
3. “Historical evidence shows that…” (Evidence introduction pattern)

Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.