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Environment Essay Topics with Samples: Writing Task 2

Updated on Jul 02, 2024, 09:03

The environmental essay topics are part of the IELTS writing task 2. They cover the vast areas related to environmental challenges we face in our everyday lives.

For example, they might ask you about a significant environmental problem and discuss possible solutions to the prevailing issues. They can also discuss the environmental threats caused by global warming. So, what measures can the government take to reduce the impact of global warming?

Now, how do you tackle these essays? It’s pretty easy. All you have to do is follow a standard approach that can focus on your topic's vital area and provide enriching ideas and solutions. This guide will show how to deal with the environmental issues essay and secure good marks.

On This Page

1. Environment Essay Topics: How to Answer

The IELTS environment topic essay follows a standard framework depending on the type of question.

2. Environment Essay Topics: Sample Answer

Find the Sample Questions & Answers for the Environment IELTS Writing Essay here.

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Environment Essay Topics: How to Answer

Topics can revolve around different themes and situations. For example, you may get questions like an environment conservation essay, which will present a problem and ask about possible solutions. There can also be opinion-based questions that ask for your opinions based on any situation.

Although the contexts of all these questions might vary, the basic layout will remain the same.

Here is a standard format for the environment essay topics:

Introduction (2-3 Sentences):

You can begin your essay by highlighting the key theme of the question.
Give some context to it and describe what your focus areas are in the essay.

Example: ‘ Environment degradation has become a global problem with rising industrialisation. Deforestation rates have increased worldwide, creating challenges for many lives. In this essay, I will discuss the key reasons behind this situation and some possible measures to solve this issue.’

Body Section (2-3 Paragraphs):

You can break this section into 2-3 paragraphs addressing a specific topic. For example, in problem-solving questions, one paragraph will deal with the problem and the other with solutions.
Focus on a balanced approach. It should not sound like being biased towards any particular stand.
Constantly enrich your ideas with supporting facts and evidence, such as data and examples.
And most importantly, organise your thoughts and ideas clearly to create a sense for the reader.

Example: ‘ The excessive use of fossil fuels is one of the primary reasons behind environmental degradation. For example, the burning of oils releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming. Switching to renewable energy alternatives like solar, wind and water can reduce carbon emissions and help fight climate change.’

Opinion (Optional)

If the question asks you to share your opinion, clearly present your personal views in this paragraph.
Weigh your opinion with the relevant evidence, citing stats and personal experiences.
Avoid being highly emotional in presenting your arguments. Instead, be more logical and to the point.

Example: ‘In my opinion, individuals play a vital role in reducing environmental degradation. By adopting eco-friendly habits, we can carefully use resources and take alternative measures wherever possible.’

Conclusion (2-3 Sentences)

Summarise the whole crux of your essay in 2-3 lines.
Also, provide some positive suggestions related to your topic.

For example, ‘Handling environmental challenges requires combined efforts at both individual and societal levels. Adopting sustainable practices, using renewable energy sources, and raising awareness of careful resource management can help us tackle these challenges. So let us come together and create a sustainable future for all.’

Environment Essay Topics: Sample Answer

Question 1: Environmental Problems Essay Topic

Write an essay on the following topic:

Some say industrial growth is necessary to solve poverty, while others say it creates environmental problems. Discuss both points of view and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer 1:

Whether industrial growth contributes to poverty alleviation or harms our environment is a matter of discussion. Some say it has provided significant employment opportunities, while others highlight the environmental impacts. This essay will focus on these varied perspectives and my opinion.

On one hand, growth enthusiasts believe that industries contribute a lot to poverty alleviation and raising the standard of living. They provide the people with various job opportunities and contribute to the economic growth. Once people have jobs, they consume more; thus, the demand for products/services increases. This income generation will boost production and require more people to do the jobs, creating more employment opportunities. This cycle helps stimulate the economy as a whole, thereby reducing poverty.

On the other hand, individuals concerned about the environment often highlight the damages caused by industrialisation. We cannot deny that these factories release harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. This release of chemicals pollutes our surroundings and raises health problems. Moreover, industrialisation creates the need for more resources like land and water, accelerating their depletion.

Considering both these perspectives, the industries are helping the economy grow while creating environmental challenges. Therefore, we must find a way to balance economic growth and environmental protection.

The government can play a broader role here. It should establish strict rules and regulations for organisations to reduce their environmental impacts. The government can also invest in renewable resources and monitor the effects of industrialisation to protect our environment.

Industries can potentially reduce poverty; however, protecting the environment is also essential. Therefore, we should adopt the right strategies and require industries to follow these procedures. In this way, we balance economic growth and environmental protection.

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Agree and Disagree Essay: IELTS Writing Task 2

Problem Solution Essay: IELTS Writing Task 2

Advantages and Disadvantages Essay: IELTS Writing Task 2

Q. How can we write an essay in IELTS?

A. The IELTS brings forward topics like environmental consciousness essay questions and prevention or conservation essays. All these topics will require you to follow a standard approach as follows:

First of all, analyse the question and understand it correctly.
Then, create a mindmap and describe which pointers you will focus on in each essay section. For example, what problems/solutions would you like to highlight in the essay?
After this, start writing the essay and use evidence, facts and examples to make it more convincing.
And lastly, proofread your essay and ensure that it is factually correct and has no grammatical errors.

Remember that the proofreading is the most crucial part. You need to ensure that your essay is error-free and easy to understand.

Q. Why is IELTS writing difficult?

A. Many students need help in the IELTS writing section at the initial level of preparation. However, the topics asked in the exam could be more moderate. For example, environmental pollution essay questions are relatively easy to write. However, you might face a time crisis while writing it. To overcome this problem, you can attend the free masterclass that provides the proper knowledge and direction for IELTS.

Q. How can I practice my IELTS essay?

A. It’s great that you have decided to practice the IELTS questions. You just need to take a practice test , which can help you gain experience with them. This experience will help you manage your time effectively and write practical answers in a limited time. Thus, your score will increase significantly and help you secure a good admission.

Q. What are the four types of IELTS essays?

A. There are many types of IELTS essays. The major ones are as follows:

Opinion-Based: These questions ask for your opinion based on a topic/situation.
Advantages-Disadvantages: Here, you need to deal with both the advantages and disadvantages of the given statement and then add your values to it.
Problem-Solution: In these questions, you need to dive into the problem and then provide a sound solution that can help solve the problem.
Discussion Type: You must discuss both views and then take your stand by stating facts and data.

Q. Is there any format I should follow to write essays in IELTS?

A. Yes, there is a standard format which you should follow to write the IELTS essay. It should include the following:

An introduction that can give insight into what you are going to talk about in the essay. It is just a short overview of 2-3 lines.
A body section deals with the main focus area of your essay. If it has advantages and disadvantages, then one paragraph is for advantages and disadvantages.
The conclusion is the last part of the essay, where you must highlight the crux of your essay and end it with a positive note.

Q. What is the most common essay in IELTS?

A. The common essay in the IELTS is an opinion—and problem-solution-based essay. In opinion-based essays, there will be two sides; you need to agree with either one and provide your input. The problem-solution essay is self-explanatory in itself. You just need to discuss the problem in detail and provide your solutions.

Q. How are the IELTS Writing tasks scored?

A. The IELTS writing scores depend on many factors deciding the score. It ranges from a scale of 1 (lowest) to 9 (highest). You can take care of the following factors to get a good score:

Ensure proper consistency in the grammar and punctuation.
Make sure that there is a logical flow of information in the essay.
The ideas and thoughts presented in the essay should be relevant to the topic.
Writing should be crystal clear enough to impress the examiner.

Q. Are IELTS essay questions repeated?

A. The IELTS essay questions are not repeated. Although a few questions seem similar, they are not 100% related. But yes, there are some topics from which many questions have come in the past. These topics are usually around education, technology, and environmental problems essay types. And remember, these are vast topics that can have many questions around them.

Q. Can I write Task 2 first in IELTS writing?

A. Yes, you can start writing the Task 2 before the Task 1. There is no hard and fast rule that you have to follow. So it is better to cover Task 2 before; it carries double the weight of Task 1. But please ensure you invest at most 40 minutes in Task 2. So, only do that if it is within the prescribed time limit.

Q. How many words should I write for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A. You can cover essay writing task 2 in 250 words. Stay within this limit because it's enough to get a decent score. Doing more than that will not add value but make you fall short of time. Try to make things perfect and follow a proper sequence of writing the essay to make the reader feel easy while writing.

Q. How can we plan the problem-solution essay in writing task 2 in the IELTS to get a good band score?

A. You must make your essay exciting and convincing enough to read to get a good band score. So, to ensure it, you must first understand the problem statement. Then, you can dive into creating the introduction. You can then divide the body of your essay into two parts: One will deal with the problems, and the second will deal with the solution. And just summarise your whole blog in the conclusion part.

Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Global Warming’s Impact on Animal Habitats

Global warming and its effects on wildlife habitats have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent exam trends and the growing importance of environmental issues, we can expect to …

Written by: IELTS Mentor

Published on: November 2, 2024

Climate change impacts on wildlife habitats

Some people believe that global warming is the most pressing environmental problem facing the world today. Others argue that habitat destruction poses a greater threat to wildlife. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Table of Contents

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to:

Discuss the view that global warming is the most critical environmental issue
Examine the perspective that habitat destruction is a more significant threat to wildlife
Provide their own opinion on which issue is more pressing

It’s important to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your own stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Climate change and habitat loss are two of the most significant environmental challenges facing our planet today. While some argue that global warming is the primary concern, others contend that habitat destruction poses a more immediate threat to wildlife. In my opinion, both issues are interconnected and equally critical, requiring urgent attention and action.

Those who prioritize global warming as the most pressing environmental problem argue that its far-reaching consequences affect all ecosystems worldwide. Rising temperatures lead to melting polar ice caps, rising sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events, all of which have devastating effects on wildlife habitats. For instance, polar bears are losing their Arctic sea ice hunting grounds , forcing them to swim longer distances and potentially starve. Furthermore, global warming disrupts delicate ecological balances, altering migration patterns and food availability for countless species.

On the other hand, proponents of the view that habitat destruction is a greater threat to wildlife emphasize the immediate and often irreversible nature of this problem. Deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion are rapidly eliminating crucial habitats for numerous species. The impact of rising temperatures on wildlife is undeniable, but habitat loss often results in the direct displacement or extinction of entire populations. For example, the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan has lost over 80% of its natural habitat due to palm oil plantations, pushing the species to the brink of extinction.

In my view, it is crucial to recognize that global warming and habitat destruction are inextricably linked and mutually reinforcing issues. Climate change exacerbates habitat loss by altering ecosystems and forcing species to adapt or relocate, while deforestation impacts global weather patterns , contributing to the greenhouse effect. Addressing one problem without considering the other would be short-sighted and ineffective.

In conclusion, both global warming and habitat destruction pose severe threats to wildlife and require immediate action. Rather than prioritizing one over the other, a comprehensive approach that tackles both issues simultaneously is essential for preserving biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of our planet’s ecosystems.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Global warming and habitat destruction are two major environmental problems that affect wildlife today. Some people think global warming is the biggest issue, while others believe habitat destruction is more dangerous for animals. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

People who say global warming is the most important problem think it affects the whole world. When temperatures rise, it causes many problems for animals. For example, ice in the Arctic is melting , which makes it hard for polar bears to hunt and survive. Also, global warming changes the weather, which can affect where animals live and what they eat.

On the other hand, some people believe habitat destruction is worse for wildlife. When humans cut down forests or build cities, many animals lose their homes. This happens very quickly and can cause animals to die or become endangered. For instance, orangutans in Indonesia are losing their forests because of palm oil farms, and now there are very few left.

In my opinion, both global warming and habitat destruction are very serious problems for wildlife. They are connected to each other, and the effects of global warming on natural habitats can be severe. When the climate changes, it can also destroy habitats, so we need to solve both problems together.

To conclude, I think global warming and habitat destruction are equally important issues that threaten wildlife. We should work on fixing both problems at the same time to protect animals and nature.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, many people worry about the environment. Some think global warming is the biggest problem, but others say destroying animal homes is worse. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

Global warming is when the Earth gets hotter. This is bad for animals because it changes where they can live. For example, polar bears need ice to hunt , but the ice is melting. Also, some birds have to fly to different places because it’s too hot where they used to live.

Destroying animal homes is also a big problem. When people cut down trees or build houses, animals lose their homes. This happens very fast and can kill many animals. For example, many orangutans are dying because people are cutting down their forests.

I think both problems are very bad for animals. Global warming and destroying homes both make it hard for animals to live. We need to stop both problems to help animals.

In conclusion, global warming and destroying animal homes are both important problems. We should try to fix both to protect animals and nature.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 essay:.

Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
Presents a clear position throughout the essay
Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control
Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
Ideas are coherently organized with clear progression and appropriate use of cohesive devices

Band 6-7 Essay:

Addresses all parts of the task, although some parts may be more fully covered than others
Presents a clear overall position
Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some errors in word choice
Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
Information and ideas are organized coherently, but there may be a lack of overall progression

Band 5-6 Essay:

Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
Expresses a position but development is not always clear
Uses a limited range of vocabulary; errors may cause some difficulty for the reader
Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression

Key Vocabulary to Remember

Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.

Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/: The action of clearing a wide area of trees.

Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The process of making an area more urban.

Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/: The state or process of a species ceasing to exist.

Habitat fragmentation (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃn/: The process by which habitat loss results in the division of large, continuous habitats into smaller, more isolated remnants.

Anthropogenic (adjective) /ˌænθrəpəˈdʒenɪk/: Caused or produced by humans.

Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.

Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.

Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

In conclusion, the Impact Of Global Warming On Animal Habitats is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in your essay, focus on addressing all parts of the question, providing balanced arguments, and expressing your opinion clearly. Practice writing essays on related topics such as the effects of climate change on specific ecosystems, the role of human activities in habitat destruction, and potential solutions for wildlife conservation. Remember to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures while maintaining coherence and cohesion throughout your essay. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.

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