Question: The best way to solve the world's environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel. Do you agree or disagree with this view?
Band 8+ Sample Answer:
(Intro) Many people argue that an increase in fuel prices will solve the problem of the environment. While this idea could help reduce the amount of harmful fumes in the atmosphere, I maintain that a global awareness campaign is the most feasible option.
(Body 1 On the one hand this policy might help cut down emissions from private vehicles which pollute the air in big cities. Indeed, as the cost per kilometre increases, people would have to consider reducing the distance and the frequency at which they travel on the roads. If there is a need to travel, commuters might also turn to more cost-effective and greener means of transportation such as buses or electric bikes. In both of these cases, the total amount of noxious fumes that cause air pollution is limited.
(Body 2) However, an increase in fuel prices can only solve a limited part of these complex environmental issues. In fact, causes of pollution are diverse, involving the use of plastic bags in shopping, or chemicals in both agriculture and industry which contaminate both water and land. Therefore, the most effective solution would be running a world-wide campaign that raises consumer awareness about the environmental cost of their shopping habits, and presses companies to reduce the consumption of noxious chemicals, and resolve to adopt greener farming and manufacturing methods.
(Conclusion) In conclusion, while increasing fuel costs can partly solve environmental problems by discouraging private vehicle usage , the ideal solution would be making the public and corporations acutely aware of the issue. I am also convinced that once resolute action is taken, humans can reverse the effect of climate change and other environmental problems. (270 words)
Words: Student essay, corrected & upgraded by Nick Kemp, former IELTS examiner.
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