IELTS Speaking topic – Nature and the environment #3

This is a sample response for IELTS Speaking Part 2 and 3. In addition to the model answer there are highlighted words and phrases. Teal is for vocabulary relating to this topic, yellow is for generally useful words and phrases.

IELTS Speaking Part 2

Model answer

One environmental issue that I am very concerned about is plastic pollution. It is a growing problem in our world today, affecting the environment in a number of ways. The problem is caused by the fact that we use too much plastic and that much of the plastic we use is not disposed of properly.

Plastic pollution has a number of negative effects. First, it is harmful to wildlife. Many animals mistake plastic garbage for food, which can lead to digestive problems, suffocation or even death. Second, such pollution creates unsightly and hazardous conditions for people in affected areas which in turn can lead to depression or diseases. Finally, it is harming the world’s oceans, with plastic debris killing marine life and disrupting ecosystems.

I can think of two ways to mitigate the issue. One is to reduce the usage of plastic, like choosing reusable bags, bottles, and jars at the same time avoiding disposable products like straws and cutlery. Another one is to improve our waste management systems to ensure that plastic is disposed of properly and recycled whenever possible.

Both of the methods suggested have been in effect for several decades now. Such things take time and we stick to the plan of reducing plastic footprint, the issue can definitely be made much less severe.

IELTS Speaking Part 3

Polluting the environment

How severe should punishment be for environmental pollution?

To start with, the degree of responsibility should be equal for both individuals and businesses. In my country people who litter, dispose of oil or do any other damage to the nature usually get away with it or just get a slap on the wrist. It is bigger businesses that get hefty fines normally. I believe that punitive measures should be equally strict for all parties. First-time offenders should pay a considerable sum to mitigate the damage done. Repeat offenses are a more serious crime and prison sentences might just be the thing for such cases. This would send a clear message that nature has to be taken seriously.

What new approaches to protecting the environment can we expect in the future?

It is safe to assume that the possible innovations are going to be possible thanks to the recent technology advances. It is likely that we will see introduction of personal carbon footprint quotas. This means that each person will be given a certain limit of negative environmental impact they are allowed to cause. This could include using transportation, buying and consuming things with non-biodegradable packaging, incorrect disposal of dangerous materials such as used motor and cooking oil. If one exceeds the quota they get penalised. If you want to take it to the next level, you could include having kids Conversely, it could be possible to offset the impact by volunteering in activities that offset the damage.

A less radical and possibly more effective way to make sure the environment stays safe is education. Make people more aware of the extent of damage they deal to nature over the course of their lives. People are not malevolent by nature, so if they understand the amount of harm they cause they are more likely to be mindful about it. Teachers can tell primary school kids about the importance of frugality, the dangers of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials as well as other vital aspects of environmentalism.

Protecting animals and nature

How can individuals help protect the environment?

One great way is understanding that every bit of effort counts, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Spreading this idea is the next logical step. Let your friends, family and colleagues know that even a minor step towards cleaner future makes a difference. Thinking long-term is what really matters – so if one develops a habit and sticks to it, they contribute to the well-being of their land, the planet they live on.

Being more responsible with your trash disposal habits is one example. Sorting it makes it easier to recycle, and cultivating this idea in your community helps bring it to a larger scale. Eventually the idea catches on and you see the number of people involved go parabolic. But the first step is always the most difficult one, so people need a nudge in the right direction.

Why is it important to protect species that are dying out?

Natural world is the biggest system known to the man. But its real beauty is in that it is a self-balancing system, one that gravitates towards equilibrium. For instance, if population of one biological kinds gets our of proportion, they starve because there won’t be enough food for them. If a generation of, say, wolves happens to be weak, then they fail to reproduce because they get overpowered by the stronger, more imposing litter. However, this system is not without a fault.

Biodiversity is important because it ensures that a system like that is healthy and responsive. Eliminate one species from the equation and a whole food chain collapses. We can say this about plants, insects and animals alike due to the delicate self-reliance of each on one another. If a population of wolves goes down because of human activity, this will allow they potential prey to breed without much risk, and their increased numbers in turn are likely to consume much more food. This is one example of a food chain disruption. 

What can be done to better protect animal rights?

One option is for governments to implement stringent laws to protect the rights of animals. These laws should lay down clear guidelines for animal welfare, care, rights. If we encouraged reporting when animal rights get violated it would enable legal bodies to enforce these laws more effectively. Promoting awareness should be an effective way as well. Governments, animal welfare organizations and educational institutions should take up initiatives to educate people about the rights of animals. People have to understand that an animal cannot report their own abuse for obvious reasons, so monitoring bodies have to be vigilant and relentless.

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