IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
Describe a law on environmental protection you know about.
You should say:
- what law it is
- how you know about this law
- who benefits from it
and explain how you feel about this law protecting the environment.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Sample Answer 1:
Although the issue of environmental protection has been around for quite some time, only a few countries around the world enacted any laws to protect it from the beginning. Of course, more and more countries are now following suit to have their own environmental laws in place, and today, I would like to talk about one such law.
The environmental protection law, I want to talk about, is related to making some cities or areas “automobile-free zones” for a certain period of time or certain days in a week. In other words, the law prohibits driving any kind of automobile in a particular area on certain days of the week or month so that the emission of carbon dioxide can be checked and controlled.
Of course, I was already aware of some environmental protection laws, such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act and banning single-use plastics, but after learning about this particular law on the National Geographic TV channel, I thought that it was a rather more innovative and cost-friendly approach to protect our environment.
However, even though we can argue about how or to what extent such a law actually benefits the environment around us, one thing is for sure that it benefits pretty much everybody who lives in and around those areas where such a law is enacted, in one way or another.
And that’s exactly why I feel really good about such innovative and “low-maintenance” environmental law, primarily because it not only limits the carbon emission in our atmosphere, but also reduces unnecessary noise pollution around us, which also happens to be a serious health threat for many elderly citizens with weak hearts. Finally, I also feel very optimistic about such environmental laws because they actually force those people, who perhaps would otherwise never walk or exercise, to give up using their vehicles even when they are just visiting a store in their neighbourhood to buy some snacks. So, all in all, I think that this law is going to go a long way to protecting our environment in the long run.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
Oh! It’s a great topic since it would allow me to talk about something important about the environment. One crucial law on environmental protection that I am familiar with is the Clean Air Act, which is implemented in many countries, including the United States.
What law it is:
The Clean Air Act is comprehensive legislation designed to control air pollution on a national level. It sets standards for air quality, regulates emissions of pollutants, and establishes mechanisms for addressing air quality issues.
How you know about this law:
I learned about the Clean Air Act during my academic studies in environmental science. It was a focal point of discussions and case studies, highlighting its significance in mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution.
Who benefits from it:
The primary beneficiaries of the Clean Air Act are the general public. By regulating emissions from industries and vehicles, the law aims to ensure that the air we breathe is of a high quality, minimising health risks associated with pollution. It is a critical tool for protecting vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, who are more susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollutants.
And explain how you feel about this law protecting the environment:
I strongly support the Clean Air Act and similar laws dedicated to environmental protection. The proactive measures outlined in such legislation are essential for preserving the well-being of both current and future generations. Knowing that there are legal frameworks in place to hold industries accountable for their environmental impact gives me confidence that steps are being taken to address the global environmental and ecological crisis.
Model Answer 3:
Before I get into the details of the topic, I’d like to thank you for giving me this great topic and the chance to talk about it. For this topic, I’d like to talk about a law that I personally think has made a noticeable difference in everyday life, which is the ban on single-use plastics.
This law basically prohibits the production, sale, and use of disposable plastic items like straws, cups, cutlery, and those thin shopping bags that are used to tear at the worst possible moment. Different countries implement it in slightly different ways, but the core idea is the same: reduce plastic waste that ends up in oceans, rivers, and landfills.
I first learned about this law a few years ago when my city started rolling out awareness campaigns. Everywhere I went, from supermarkets to small street shops, there were signs saying “No plastic bags available, and please bring your own.” At first, people were a bit confused and honestly a little annoyed, but after a while, it became a normal part of daily life. I also saw a few documentaries and social-media campaigns that explained the huge environmental damage caused by single-use plastics, which made the reasoning behind the law even clearer.
As for who benefits from it, the impact is actually pretty widespread. The environment obviously benefits the most. This is because it reduces the amount of plastic waste that can take hundreds of years to decompose. Marine animals, which often mistake plastic for food, are safer because less of it ends up in the ocean. Communities benefit too, since cleaner public spaces and healthier ecosystems directly improve quality of life.
How do I feel about this law? Well, I’m honestly very supportive of it. At first, I thought it would be inconvenient, but it’s surprising how quickly these small habits. When someone realises that such tiny adjustments help solve a massive environmental problem, it actually feels good to participate. So overall, I think the ban on single-use plastics is a smart and practical step towards protecting the environment, and I genuinely hope more countries strengthen or adopt similar laws in the future.
Idea Generation for this Topic:
This topic asks you to describe a law on environmental protection that you know about. You should explain what the law is, how you came to know about it, who benefits from it, and how you feel about its role in protecting the environment. To make your answer great, mention concrete effects of the law, give a personal connection (how you learned or saw its impact), and evaluate both strengths and limitations. Here are some ideas you can adapt for your own response:
1. The Clean Air Act:
I know about the Clean Air Act because I read a news feature on how it reduced smog in major cities. The law sets air-quality standards and limits emissions from factories and vehicles. Citizens, especially children and the elderly, benefit through cleaner air and fewer respiratory illnesses, while industry sometimes bears compliance costs. I feel positive about this law because it shows how regulation can deliver measurable public-health gains, though I also recognise that enforcement and political will are ongoing challenges.
2. The Endangered Species Act:
I first learned about the Endangered Species Act during a school project on wildlife conservation. The law protects threatened animals and plants by restricting habitat destruction and promoting recovery plans. Conservation groups and future generations benefit most, as it helps prevent extinctions and preserves biodiversity. I admire the law’s ambition as it places intrinsic value on species. I also worry about conflicts with local livelihoods when protections are strict.
3. EU Habitats Directive / Natura 2000:
I came across the Habitats Directive in an article about protected sites across Europe called Natura 2000. The directive requires member states to protect habitats and species by designating conservation areas and managing human activities there. Ecosystems, tourists who enjoy nature, and the long-term sustainability of fisheries and forestry benefit from it. I think it’s an important example of cross-border cooperation for nature, although balancing conservation with local development can be politically sensitive.
4. India’s Environment (Protection) Act:
I first heard about India’s Environment Protection Act in college when studying environmental regulations and case studies from South Asia. The act gives the government broad powers to control pollution, set standards, and take emergency action. Communities near industrial zones and ecosystems affected by pollution benefit when the law is enforced. I feel that the law is crucial for public health, but its impact depends heavily on enforcement at the state and local levels.
5. The Climate Change Act:
I learned about the UK’s Climate Change Act during a seminar on national climate policies. The law requires legally binding greenhouse gas reduction targets and creates a framework for carbon budgeting. Citizens and future generations benefit from a government commitment to long-term emissions cuts, though businesses must adapt and invest in cleaner technologies. I respect the Act because it sets clear targets and accountability, yet I also think ambitious targets need equally ambitious delivery plans.
6. Plastic bag / single-use plastic bans:
I noticed single-use plastic bans after my municipality introduced a rule banning plastic bags at markets and shops. These laws limit the sale or distribution of disposable plastics to reduce litter and marine pollution. Local communities, coastal ecosystems and waste-management systems benefit by seeing reduced pollution and lower cleanup costs. I strongly support such rules because they change everyday behaviour quickly, though I recognise the need for affordable alternatives and public education to make them fair.
7. Marine pollution control / coastal protection laws:
I became aware of marine protection laws when a coastal cleanup NGO explained how regulations restrict dumping and protect mangroves. These laws typically control discharge from ships, industry and land runoff, protecting fisheries and tourism. Fishing communities, coral reefs and marine wildlife benefit from cleaner seas. I feel these laws are essential. However, they require international cooperation and strong monitoring to be effective.
8. EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) / carbon market:
I learned about the EU ETS while researching ways countries reduce emissions; it’s a legally established carbon trading system for major emitters. The law caps total emissions and allows companies to trade allowances, incentivising reductions where they are cheapest. Society and the climate benefit from reduced greenhouse gases, although some industries must pay more or innovate. I view market-based tools like this as powerful when well-designed, yet I remain cautious about loopholes and the need for complementary policies.
9. Forest protection / Wildlife Protection Acts (national examples):
I first encountered forest and wildlife protection laws while visiting a national park where park rangers explained legal restrictions on logging and hunting. These laws protect habitats and endangered species and often regulate land use. Local communities, ecotourism, and biodiversity all benefit from maintained forests. I believe such laws are vital for ecosystem services like water, soil stability and livelihoods; but they must be combined with community involvement to succeed long-term.
10. Waste management and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws:
I read about EPR legislation in a business journal describing how producers must manage end-of-life products like electronics and packaging. The law shifts responsibility upstream so manufacturers fund recycling and safe disposal. Consumers, waste workers and recycling industries benefit from less landfill and safer handling of hazardous materials. I support EPR because it creates incentives to design recyclable products, though effective implementation requires transparent systems and enforcement.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing a law on environmental protection, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey the nature of the legislation, its purpose, the beneficiaries, and your personal stance on its importance. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the legal aspects, the ecological benefits, and the necessity of such regulations, making your response both informative and persuasive. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Legislation: – Laws, considered collectively.
Example: The government introduced new legislation to curb air pollution in the city.
Implement: – To put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect.
Example: The authorities decided to implement a ban on single-use plastics.
Prohibit: – To formally forbid something by law, rule, or other authority.
Example: The law prohibits the dumping of industrial waste into the river.
Sustainable: – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level; conserving an ecological balance by avoiding depletion of natural resources.
Example: This law is a major step towards a more sustainable future for our country.
Conservation: – The action of conserving something, in particular, preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment.
Example: The primary goal of the act is the conservation of endangered species.
Compliance: – The action or fact of complying with a wish or command.
Example: Factories are regularly inspected to ensure compliance with the new emissions standards.
Penalty: – A punishment imposed for breaking a law, rule, or contract.
Example: There is a stiff penalty for anyone caught violating the new environmental regulations.
Deterrent: – A thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.
Example: The heavy fines act as a strong deterrent against illegal logging.
Biodiversity: – The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
Example: Protecting the forest is essential for maintaining the region’s biodiversity.
Ecosystem: – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Example: Pollution has severely damaged the delicate ecosystem of the coastline.
Carbon footprint: – The amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc.
Example: This policy aims to significantly reduce the nation’s carbon footprint over the next decade.
Enforce: – Compel observance of or compliance with (a law, rule, or obligation).
Example: It is difficult to enforce the law without the cooperation of the public.
Crucial: – Decisive or critical, especially in the success or failure of something.
Example: I believe this law is crucial for the health of future generations.
Preserve: – To maintain (something) in its original or existing state.
Example: We must do everything we can to preserve our natural resources.
Long-term impact: – The effect that something will have over a long period.
Example: Although it is inconvenient now, the long-term impact of the law will be very positive.
Step in the right direction: – An action that increases the possibility of success or of a solution.
Example: While not perfect, this law is definitely a step in the right direction for environmental protection.
If you prepare for the topic “Describe a law on environmental protection you know about”, you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a law that has been recently introduced in your county.
2) Describe a law which you like.
3) Describe a problem that your city/county faces.
4) Describe a good law you know about.
5) Describe a law you think should be more strictly enforced in your country.