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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment. What damage does plastic do to the environment? What can be done by governments and individuals to solve this problem? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment. What damage does plastic do to the environment?

Plastic pollution has become a significant threat to the environment. Plastic bags, bottles, and packaging cause damage to the environment in various ways. They contribute to the pollution of oceans, harm wildlife, and take hundreds of years to decompose. Governments and individuals can take steps to address this issue by implementing strict regulations, promoting the use of eco-friendly alternatives, and raising awareness about the impact of plastic pollution.

Firstly, plastic waste often ends up in oceans, causing harm to marine life. Sea turtles, for example, mistake plastic bags for jellyfish and consume them, leading to serious health issues and even death. Additionally, plastic waste can entangle marine animals, leading to injury or suffocation. This damages the delicate balance of ecosystems and threatens the biodiversity of our oceans.

Furthermore, plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, leading to long-term environmental damage. This results in the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills and natural habitats, impacting soil fertility and contaminating groundwater. The production and disposal of plastic also contribute to carbon emissions, further exacerbating climate change.

Governments can play a crucial role in addressing this issue by implementing strict regulations on the use of plastic, promoting recycling programs, and imposing taxes on single-use plastic items. Additionally, individuals can contribute by reducing their consumption of plastic products, opting for reusable alternatives, and participating in community clean-up efforts.

In conclusion, plastic pollution poses a severe threat to the environment, impacting marine life, ecosystems, and contributing to long-term environmental damage. By implementing effective regulations and promoting sustainable alternatives, both governments and individuals can work together to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution and protect the environment for future generations.

Model Essay #2:

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment. What damage does plastic do to the environment?

While it is true that plastic bags, bottles, and packaging can have negative impacts on the environment, it is important to recognize the benefits of plastic in modern society. Plastic has revolutionized industries, improved food safety, and played a crucial role in medical advancements. Instead of completely demonizing plastic, efforts should be focused on responsible usage, recycling, and innovative solutions.

Plastic packaging helps to extend the shelf life of food products, reducing food waste and ensuring food safety. Additionally, plastic materials are essential in the healthcare sector, used in medical equipment, protective gear, and pharmaceutical packaging. These applications have played a vital role in improving healthcare outcomes and saving lives.

Rather than completely phasing out plastic, governments can invest in research and development to create biodegradable and sustainable alternatives. Encouraging the development of innovative materials that serve the same purposes as traditional plastics but with reduced environmental impact can be a more balanced approach. Individuals can also contribute by supporting businesses that prioritize sustainable packaging and reducing their own plastic consumption.

In conclusion, while plastic pollution is a serious concern, it is important to recognize the valuable role that plastic plays in various industries. By promoting responsible usage, investing in sustainable alternatives, and supporting innovation, we can mitigate the negative impacts of plastic on the environment while still benefiting from its many practical uses.

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