IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals Others say that there are more important environmental problems
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Sample Answer:
Nowadays, due to human activities, the environment is facing several challenges that are threatening life on Earth. Some people assert that the primary environmental issue of our time is the extinction of specific species of plants and animals, whereas others claim that there are more pressing environmental problems. This essay will analyse both these views and present my opinion.
On the one hand, the loss of species of plants and animals is a major environmental concern. This is because a reduction in biodiversity may lead to an ecological imbalance, with far-reaching consequences. For instance, the disappearance of pollinators such as bees would affect the availability of food, while a decrease in predators would lead to a rapid increase in their prey, resulting in an ecological imbalance. In addition, many species provide humans with valuable resources such as food, medicine and fuel, and their extinction would deprive us of these resources.
On the other hand, there are other environmental issues that are more pressing than the extinction of species. For instance, global warming, caused by the burning of fossil fuels, is leading to rising sea levels and flooding of coastal cities, and desertification due to deforestation. Furthermore, air pollution from industry and transport is causing respiratory illnesses, and water pollution from agricultural runoff is leading to over-growth of algae and eutrophication. Thus, these environmental problems have more immediate and direct impacts on humans than species extinction.
In my opinion, both the extinction of species and other environmental issues are of immense importance. However, species extinction has a greater long-term impact on the environment, as it can cause an ecological imbalance that can take centuries to restore. Therefore, it is essential that we prioritize the preservation of species over other environmental issues. This can be done by setting up protected areas, implementing sustainable fishing practices, and reducing the use of pesticides and other pollutants. Only by taking such measures will we be able to protect species and ensure a healthy environment for future generations.