IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1522 - Emphasis on sustainable living and reducing environmental impact
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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 societies, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable living and reducing environmental impact.
What are the challenges of adopting a sustainable lifestyle?
What practical actions can individuals take to contribute to sustainability?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Many communities are increasingly putting emphasis on sustainable ways of living and minimizing carbon footprints. This essay will first discuss how the initial cost of adoption and consumer culture are the main challenges of embracing a net-zero lifestyle and then outline how the mantra of reduce, reuse and recycle, and responsible consumption patterns contribute to adopting a sustainable lifestyle.
One of the real challenges people face in their pursuit of a green lifestyle is the high primary cost of adoption. That is to say that sustainable technologies and appliances are more expensive than their traditional counterparts. This cost barrier dissuades individuals from embracing an environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Installing clean energy systems, such as solar panels or geothermal heating systems, for example, often requires substantial upfront costs, making it difficult for individuals to make sustainable choices. Moreover, consumerism is another major barrier. Deeply ingrained consumer habits place great emphasis on the pursuit of material possessions as a means of fulfilment, presenting a huge challenge to the shift towards a green lifestyle.
However, people can adopt a sustainable lifestyle by embracing the mantra of reduce, reuse, and recycle. In simple words, individuals ought to cut down on unnecessary consumption, opt for durable products, repair gadgets instead of buying new ones, and use recycled items. For instance, we can buy products made with recycled paper or plastic, like bin liners, kitchen paper or toilet tissue as well as contribute to the recycling process whenever possible. Individuals can also make attempts to achieve energy efficiency. They should use energy-efficient electrical appliances, turn off lights when not in use, and unplug appliances in order to conserve energy, therefore reducing carbon emissions.
To conclude, the primary cost of shifting to a sustainable lifestyle and consumer culture are the main barriers to adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle. However, individuals can contribute to sustainability by embracing the mantra of reduce, reuse and recycle, and responsible consumption habits.
Model Answer 2:
In numerous societies today, the focus on sustainable living and decreasing environmental impact is gaining momentum. However, adopting a sustainable lifestyle poses significant challenges. This essay will discuss these challenges and propose practical actions individuals can take to contribute to sustainability.
One of the primary challenges in adopting a sustainable lifestyle is the ingrained habits and convenience of modern living. For instance, the reliance on single-use plastics, fast fashion, and fossil fuels is deeply embedded in daily routines, making it difficult for individuals to transition to more sustainable alternatives. The lack of infrastructure and support for sustainable practices, such as recycling facilities and public transportation, further complicates efforts to live sustainably. Additionally, the initial cost of sustainable products, such as organic foods, energy-efficient appliances, and electric vehicles, can be prohibitive for many people.
Despite these challenges, there are several practical actions individuals can take to promote sustainability. Firstly, reducing waste is a crucial step. Individuals can practice the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. For example, opting for reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers can significantly cut down on plastic waste. Secondly, conserving energy is essential. Simple actions like switching to LED bulbs, unplugging devices when not in use, and utilising energy-efficient appliances can reduce energy consumption.
Furthermore, individuals can adopt more sustainable transportation methods. Walking, cycling, carpooling, and using public transport can reduce carbon emissions. For those who drive, maintaining vehicles to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and considering the transition to electric or hybrid cars can also make a substantial difference.
In conclusion, while adopting a sustainable lifestyle presents challenges such as changing ingrained habits, high costs, and inadequate infrastructure, practical actions like reducing waste and conserving energy can significantly contribute to sustainability. By making conscious choices and advocating for systemic changes, individuals can play a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable future.
Idea Generation for This IELTS Essay:
Essay Type: Problem-Solution Essay
Main questions of this IELTS Essay:
A. What are the challenges of adopting a sustainable lifestyle?
B. What practical actions can individuals take to contribute to sustainability?
Challenges of Adopting a Sustainable Lifestyle
High cost of Eco-friendly products:
Many environmentally friendly products, such as organic food, solar panels, and electric vehicles, tend to be more expensive than their conventional counterparts. This financial barrier discourages people from making sustainable choices, especially those from lower-income groups.
Lack of awareness and education:
Many people are unaware of the environmental consequences of their daily habits. A lack of proper education on sustainability means individuals may not fully understand the impact of excessive plastic use, fast fashion, or energy consumption.
Limited availability of sustainable alternatives:
In some regions, access to eco-friendly alternatives is restricted. For example, public transport may not be well-developed, forcing people to rely on private vehicles. Similarly, organic produce and zero-waste stores might be scarce in certain areas.
Resistance to lifestyle changes:
Many individuals find it difficult to change long-established habits, such as using plastic bags, eating meat daily, or over-relying on convenience products. Sustainable living often requires adjustments that some people perceive as inconvenient or time-consuming.
Corporate and industrial influence:
Large corporations that focus on mass production and profit maximization contribute significantly to pollution and environmental degradation. Without stricter regulations, individuals may feel that their efforts alone are insufficient to make a meaningful impact.
Practical Actions Individuals Can Take to Contribute to Sustainability
Reducing waste through recycling and reuse:
Individuals can minimize waste by recycling materials such as paper, plastic, and glass. Additionally, adopting a zero-waste lifestyle, such as using reusable shopping bags, metal straws, and refillable water bottles, can significantly cut down plastic pollution.
Adopting sustainable eating habits:
Reducing meat consumption and choosing plant-based diets can lower carbon footprints, as the meat industry is one of the leading contributors to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting local farmers and buying seasonal, organic produce also promotes sustainability.
Using Energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources:
Switching to LED bulbs, energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, can help reduce electricity consumption. Individuals can also practice simple habits like turning off lights and unplugging devices when not in use.
Using public transport, cycling, or walking:
Reducing reliance on private vehicles by using public transport, carpooling, cycling, or walking can lower carbon emissions. Governments are also promoting green transport options, such as electric buses and bike-sharing programs, which individuals can actively support.
Supporting sustainable brands and ethical consumption:
Consumers can choose to buy from companies that prioritize sustainable production methods and ethical labour practices. For instance, purchasing second-hand clothing instead of fast fashion items helps reduce textile waste and pollution.
Spreading awareness and advocating for policy changes:
Individuals can influence their communities by educating others about sustainability through social media, workshops, or school programs. Moreover, supporting policies that promote renewable energy, waste reduction, and conservation efforts can lead to long-term systemic change.
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