Plan this discussion essay about environment with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that individuals can do little to combat climate change and that big companies must take the lead. Others believe that ordinary people's choices make a real difference.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
There is disagreement about who should do more to fight climate change. Some people think that individuals can achieve little and that large companies must lead, while others believe ordinary choices make a real difference. I will discuss both views, and I will explain why I think both are needed, with companies carrying the greater responsibility.
Supporters of corporate responsibility have a strong case. A relatively small number of energy, transport and manufacturing firms produce a large proportion of global emissions, so changes in their methods have a far greater effect than any household decision. Companies also control what products are available and how they are made; a consumer cannot buy a low-carbon car or a sustainable product if the market does not offer one. Individuals often have limited choices, especially if they cannot afford more expensive green options.
Others emphasise individual action. When millions of people cut their energy use, eat less meat, avoid wasting food and choose public transport, the combined effect is substantial. Consumer demand also pushes businesses to change: the growth of recycling, organic food and electric vehicles has partly been driven by public preference. Personal habits influence neighbours and friends too, helping to shift social attitudes and encouraging governments to introduce stricter policies.
In my opinion, both groups have a role, but companies are more responsible because of the scale of their emissions and their power to change entire systems. Governments should set binding targets and taxes to ensure that firms act, and individuals should support those policies through their votes and purchases. Without strong rules, voluntary efforts by citizens would not be enough.
In conclusion, personal choices matter, but real progress depends mainly on large companies, which must be pushed by regulation and public pressure to reduce their impact.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| climate change | long-term warming of the planet |
| corporate responsibility | duty of companies to act well |
| collective action | people acting together |
| greenhouse gas emissions | heat-trapping gas released |
| ethical consumption | buying with good values |
| sustainability | meeting needs without harming the future |
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