Global Environmental Issues: IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essay (Advanced Vocabulary for Pollution & Conservation)

Environmental degradation and climate change are frequently recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2. To score a Band 8.0 or higher, you need precise, high-level academic vocabulary to discuss complex issues like pollution, policy implementation, and global cooperation. This model essay provides the language structure you need.

❓ The Essay Prompt

Question: Environmental pollution is a major problem that affects the health of people and the environment. What are the causes of this problem, and what measures can be taken to solve it?

📝 Band 8.0 Model Answer (Problem and Solution Structure)

Introduction

The **deterioration of the planetary ecosystem** is arguably the most pressing challenge confronting humanity in the 21st century. This essay will examine the principal catalysts behind widespread environmental contamination before proposing a series of **viable and stringent countermeasures** that government bodies and individuals must implement to mitigate the damage.

Body Paragraph 1 (BP1: Causes of Environmental Degradation)

The primary **determinants** of environmental damage stem from both rapid industrialization and burgeoning global consumerism. The relentless pursuit of economic expansion necessitates the **burning of fossil fuels**, leading to the **emission of copious greenhouse gases** that accelerate global warming. Furthermore, a culture of **disposable consumption** generates immense volumes of non-biodegradable waste, which subsequently contaminates water sources and crucial habitats. This systemic overuse of **finite natural resources** remains the most significant obstacle to environmental sustainability.

Body Paragraph 2 (BP2: Solutions and Measures)

Addressing these fundamental causes requires a multi-faceted approach involving both legislative and personal responsibility. Governments must **formulate stringent environmental policies**, such as imposing **hefty carbon taxes** on high-polluting industries and heavily subsidizing the development of **renewable energy sources**. Concurrently, individual citizens bear the responsibility of adopting more sustainable lifestyles, particularly through the conscious reduction of consumption and the prioritization of recycling initiatives. **What is essential is a concerted global effort** to transition away from harmful practices toward genuine **ecological stewardship**.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while environmental pollution is rooted deeply in industrial necessity and consumption habits, the situation is far from insurmountable. By **implementing decisive governmental regulations** and fostering a widespread commitment to sustainable living among citizens, it is entirely feasible to **curb the detrimental trajectory** of environmental change and secure the long-term viability of the planet.

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🔑 Key Vocabulary for Environmental Essays (Band 8.0+)

• **Key Nouns:** *ecological stewardship*, *finite natural resources*, *detrimental trajectory*, *environmental degradation*, *copious greenhouse gases*
• Key Verbs/Phrases: *mitigate the damage*, *formulate stringent policies*, *harness renewable energy*, *accelerate global warming*, *curb the detrimental trajectory*

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Our eighth post will focus on **IELTS Writing Task 2: Money and Global Economy (Opinion Essay)**, addressing high-value financial topics often seen in the exam.