IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1470 - Plastic shopping bags should be banned
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In many countries, plastic shopping bags are the main type of rubbish. They cause water and land pollution, so they should be banned.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Agreement]
Plastic shopping bags have become a ubiquitous source of environmental pollution in many nations, significantly contributing to water and land contamination. To save our environment, many suggest a complete ban on plastic shopping bags. It is also my firm belief that detrimental effects warrant a ban on plastic bags all around the world.
The environmental impact of plastic bags is substantial, particularly in terms of water and land pollution. These non-biodegradable bags often find their way into water bodies, posing a severe threat to aquatic life. For instance, marine animals, mistake these bags for food, and ingest them, leading to fatal consequences such as choking or digestive issues. Additionally, when not disposed of properly, plastic bags end up cluttering landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose fully. This accumulation of plastic waste not only contaminates soil but also seeps harmful chemicals, polluting the surrounding environment.
Moreover, the ban on plastic bags would not only mitigate environmental pollution but also encourage the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. Several countries that have enforced strict regulations or imposed bans on plastic bags have witnessed a surge in the use of reusable bags made from biodegradable materials such as cotton or jute. For example, in countries where plastic bag bans have been implemented, citizens have transitioned to using reusable bags, significantly reducing the volume of plastic waste generated.
In conclusion, given the detrimental consequences of plastic shopping bags on the environment, their prohibition seems imperative. Not only would a ban mitigate the severe pollution caused by these bags, but it would also foster the adoption of more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives.
Model Answer 2: [Agreement]
In recent years, plastic shopping bags have become a major environmental concern in many countries due to their widespread use and improper disposal. These bags significantly contribute to water and land pollution, adversely affecting ecosystems and human health. I strongly agree that plastic shopping bags should be banned to mitigate their detrimental impact on the environment.
One of the most compelling reasons for banning plastic bags is their contribution to land and water pollution. Plastic bags are not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. When improperly discarded, they often end up clogging drainage systems, littering streets, or being swept into rivers and oceans. For example, numerous reports have shown that marine animals often mistake plastic bags for food, leading to ingestion, suffocation, and death. Banning these bags would significantly reduce plastic pollution, thereby protecting wildlife and preserving ecosystems.
Another reason for prohibiting plastic shopping bags is their harmful impact on human health. As plastic bags break down, they release microplastics that contaminate soil and water sources. These microplastics can enter the food chain when ingested by aquatic organisms, eventually reaching humans. Studies have found that microplastics can pose serious health risks, including hormonal disruption and potential carcinogenic effects. By eliminating plastic bags, countries can reduce the prevalence of microplastic pollution and promote public health.
In conclusion, banning plastic shopping bags is a necessary step to address environmental pollution and safeguard public health. Although they may be cheap and offer short-term convenience, the long-term consequences of plastic waste are catastrophic. Therefore, it is essential for governments to implement strict regulations on plastic bag usage and encourage the adoption of sustainable alternatives.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay question:
In many countries, plastic shopping bags are the main type of rubbish. They cause water and land pollution, so they should be banned.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Essay type:
Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)
The main question of this essay:
To what extent do you agree or disagree that plastic shopping bags should be banned due to their negative environmental impact?
Reasons why plastic shopping bags should be banned:
1. Major contributor to environmental pollution:
Plastic bags are a primary source of pollution, clogging drainage systems and littering both urban and rural landscapes. They do not decompose easily, remaining in the environment for hundreds of years. This long-lasting pollution harms ecosystems and disrupts natural habitats. For instance, plastic bags are commonly found in water bodies, leading to blocked waterways and polluted coastlines.
2. Threat to marine and wildlife:
Many animals, particularly marine species, mistake plastic bags for food, leading to ingestion, choking, or even death. The ingestion of plastic fragments can block digestive tracts and cause malnutrition. This results in the decline of wildlife populations. For example, sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, which can be fatal when ingested.
3. Human health risks from microplastics:
Over time, plastic bags break down into microplastics that contaminate soil and water. These microplastics can enter the food chain through marine life, posing potential health risks to humans. Research shows that microplastic consumption can lead to hormonal imbalances and other health issues. For instance, microplastics have been detected in seafood, raising concerns about food safety.
4. Waste management challenges:
Plastic bags often clog waste management systems, increasing operational costs and causing inefficiencies. Landfills become overburdened with non-biodegradable materials, leading to overflow and pollution. This poses a significant challenge for municipalities. For example, many cities face increased maintenance costs to clear plastic waste from sewage systems.
5. Availability of eco-friendly alternatives:
Reusable and biodegradable bags offer practical and sustainable alternatives to plastic. Many countries have successfully introduced cloth bags or paper bags, which decompose naturally and do not harm the environment. For instance, countries like Rwanda and Bangladesh have imposed bans on plastic bags and promoted the use of sustainable alternatives.
6. Positive examples of bans reducing pollution:
Countries that have banned plastic bags have reported noticeable reductions in plastic waste and improved urban cleanliness. Implementing similar measures worldwide could significantly decrease pollution levels. For instance, Kenya's plastic bag ban has led to cleaner streets and less plastic waste in water bodies.
Arguments against banning plastic shopping bags:
1. Convenience for consumers:
Plastic bags are lightweight, affordable, and convenient for carrying goods, especially for spontaneous purchases. Some people prefer them for their practicality and ease of use. For example, grocery stores often provide plastic bags for free, making them a convenient option for shoppers.
2. Economic impact on small businesses:
Many small businesses rely on cheap plastic bags to minimize costs. A ban could force them to invest in more expensive alternatives, affecting their profitability. This could be particularly challenging for low-budget retailers. For instance, small grocery stores may struggle to afford more costly biodegradable bags.
3. Inadequate infrastructure for alternatives:
Not all regions have access to sustainable alternatives like cloth or paper bags. In areas where plastic bags are the norm, implementing a ban may cause inconvenience and resistance. For example, rural areas with limited supply chains might struggle to obtain eco-friendly bag options.
4. Risk of increased use of other harmful materials:
Banning plastic bags could lead to a rise in the use of other single-use materials, such as paper or thicker plastic bags, which may also have environmental drawbacks. For example, the production of paper bags requires more energy and water, leading to deforestation.
5. Potential backlash from the public:
Sudden bans without proper awareness campaigns can lead to public dissatisfaction. People accustomed to plastic bag use may find it challenging to adapt to new practices, leading to resistance. For instance, countries that have introduced bans without thorough public engagement have faced criticism and non-compliance.
6. Recycling potential:
Some argue that instead of banning plastic bags, governments should invest in better recycling systems to reduce environmental harm. Improved recycling could mitigate the negative impacts without eliminating the convenience of plastic. For instance, promoting plastic bag recycling programs can help reduce waste while maintaining consumer choice.
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