IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1473 - Most of the world’s problems are caused by overpopulation
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
The global population is increasing rapidly. Some people say that most of the world’s problems are caused by overpopulation.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
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]
The growing global population has triggered discussions regarding its impact on various societal and environmental issues. There is a prevailing belief that most major global problems are prompted by overpopulation, and I am inclined to agree with this assertion due to the manifold challenges it engenders.
Primarily, overpopulation exerts immense pressure on natural resources and the environment. The growing populace intensifies demands for food, water, and land resources, resulting in resource depletion and environmental degradation. For instance, rapid urbanization to accommodate the swelling population leads to deforestation, habitat destruction, and increased carbon emissions, exacerbating climate change. This strain on resources significantly contributes to ecological imbalances, threatening biodiversity and aggravating environmental crises.
Furthermore, overpopulation contributes to social and economic challenges. Excessive population growth exacerbates poverty, unemployment, and social inequality. Limited job opportunities and inadequate resources strain economies, particularly in developing countries, leading to socioeconomic disparities and political instability. In developing nations like India, the substantial increase in the population has led to intensified pressure on available resources and job opportunities. With limited employment options and inadequate resources to accommodate the burgeoning workforce, the country faces a significant challenge in providing livelihoods for its citizens. Consequently, this has resulted in heightened poverty rates, social disparities, and a widening wealth gap, further intensifying socio-economic inequalities and creating political unrest. The burden of accommodating a burgeoning populace has also placed immense stress on public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, often resulting in their inefficiency and inadequacy.
In conclusion, the rapid surge in the global population undeniably magnifies multifaceted issues, impacting the environment, society, and economies worldwide. The strain on natural resources, environmental degradation, and socio-economic challenges are intricately linked to overpopulation. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted approach that involves effective population management strategies, and sustainable resource utilization.
Model Answer 2: [Disagreement]
The rapid increase in the global population is often blamed for many of the world’s pressing issues. While it is undeniable that overpopulation can contribute to some challenges, I strongly disagree with the notion that it is the primary cause of most global problems. In my opinion, poor resource management and socio-political factors are more significant contributors.
One major reason why overpopulation should not be solely blamed is that many global problems are rooted in the inefficient use and distribution of resources. Food scarcity, for instance, is often attributed to overpopulation; however, the real issue lies in unequal distribution and waste. According to the United Nations, nearly one-third of all food produced is wasted, while millions suffer from hunger. This disparity highlights that the problem is not the sheer number of people but rather the mismanagement of resources. Similarly, water scarcity is exacerbated by poor infrastructure and excessive industrial use rather than by population density alone.
Furthermore, socio-political factors play a crucial role in the world’s most pressing issues, such as poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation. For example, political instability and corruption can hinder economic growth and development, leaving large populations impoverished. In contrast, countries like Japan and South Korea, despite their high population densities, have successfully managed their resources and maintained economic stability through efficient governance and social policies. This demonstrates that population size alone does not determine socio-economic challenges. It is also important to consider that attributing global problems solely to overpopulation can distract from the actual causes and necessary solutions. Instead of focusing on population control, policymakers should address issues like resource wastage, corruption, and inadequate infrastructure.
In conclusion, while overpopulation may exacerbate certain issues, it is not the root cause of most of the world’s problems. Addressing poor governance and resource mismanagement would have a more substantial and lasting impact on global well-being.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay question:
The global population is increasing rapidly. Some people say that most of the world’s problems are caused by overpopulation. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Essay type:
Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)
The main question of this essay:
A) To what extent do you agree or disagree that overpopulation is the primary cause of most global problems?
Arguments in favour of overpopulation being the primary cause of global problems:
1. Strain on natural resources:
With the increasing global population, there is heightened demand for food, water, and energy, leading to resource depletion. The growing need for agricultural land also results in deforestation and loss of biodiversity. For instance, in many densely populated countries, forests are cleared to accommodate farmland and housing, leading to environmental degradation.
2. Increased pollution and waste:
Larger populations generate more waste, including plastic, electronic, and household waste, overwhelming waste management systems. This leads to environmental pollution, particularly in urban areas where landfills are often overfilled. To cite an example, cities like Delhi and Manila struggle with excessive garbage, resulting in serious health hazards.
3. Urban overcrowding and housing crisis:
High population density in cities often leads to inadequate housing, slum development, and poor living conditions. This urban congestion results in increased homelessness and social inequality. For instance, in cities like Mumbai, millions live in cramped and unsanitary slums due to insufficient affordable housing.
4. Pressure on healthcare and education systems:
A rapidly growing population places immense strain on public services such as hospitals and schools, resulting in overcrowded facilities and lower quality of care and education. For instance, many public hospitals in developing nations struggle to accommodate the increasing number of patients, leading to inadequate healthcare services.
5. Job scarcity and economic challenges:
When the population grows faster than job creation, unemployment rates increase, leading to economic hardship and social unrest. Countries with booming populations often face challenges in providing jobs for all citizens. For example, some African countries experience high youth unemployment despite economic growth.
Arguments against overpopulation being the primary cause of global problems:
1. Poor resource management rather than population size:
Many problems attributed to overpopulation are more accurately linked to mismanagement of resources. Food scarcity, for instance, results from food wastage and inefficient distribution, not just from population growth. For instance, despite high food production, millions go hungry due to logistical and economic barriers.
2. Socio-political factors are more influential:
Issues like poverty and inequality are often rooted in corruption, political instability, and lack of governance rather than sheer population numbers. Countries with efficient policies manage large populations effectively. To give an example, Japan, despite being densely populated, has a high standard of living due to robust social systems.
3. Technological advancements mitigate the impact:
Innovations in agriculture, energy, and waste management help accommodate growing populations without depleting resources. For example, vertical farming and renewable energy sources are helping urban areas maintain sustainability despite increasing populations.
4. Economic potential of a larger workforce:
A growing population can boost economic productivity if there is proper education and employment planning. Young, dynamic workforces can drive innovation and development. As an example, countries like India are leveraging their large youth population to become a global tech hub.
5. Misattributing global problems solely to population growth:
Blaming overpopulation for global issues overlooks the complexity of underlying causes like inequality, poor infrastructure, and flawed economic policies. Focusing solely on reducing population growth does not address these fundamental challenges. For instance, developed nations with lower birth rates still face environmental and social issues.
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