The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel Sample Essay

'The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel' is an IELTS Writing Task 2 Agree/Disagree essay, where candidates express their stance on a statement and support it with relevant arguments.

You can familiarize yourself with the framework of an IELTS Agree Disagree essay by practicing subjects like ‘The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel’, as Writing Task 2 can be difficult for many IELTS applicants. Additionally, you can review the IELTS Writing Task 2 practice tests on a regular basis to achieve your desired band score. Graded on a scale of 1 to 9, achieving a Band 7, 8, or 9 indicates varying levels of proficiency.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question

Structure Breakdown

Type of Essay: IELTS Agree-Disagree essays

Band 7 Sample Answer on 'The best way to solve the world's environmental problems'

The overconsumption of fossil fuels has become a major concern in recent years. Some people suggest that increasing fuel prices could be a solution to environmental issues. Personally, I believe that other measures should also be given equal consideration.

Firstly, increasing fuel prices cannot significantly reduce global dependence on fossil fuels. Even if the price of fuel rises considerably, people will not be able to immediately cut down on the massive demand for petrol. For example, in daily life, people still need to use their cars despite fluctuations in fuel prices. Moreover, petrol is also crucial for other applications, such as in manufacturing and agriculture. If fuel prices increase, the national economy could suffer several adverse consequences.

When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, other measures should be taken to address the problem of overconsumption. One practical solution is to reduce demand in daily activities, such as travel and production. This can be achieved by encouraging the use of energy-efficient products, like hybrid cars, or by implementing new energy-saving technologies in manufacturing. Additionally, a more sustainable solution is to reduce reliance on fossil fuels by embracing alternative resources. Wind and tidal power in the Netherlands, nuclear power in Japan, and solar power in the United States have all proven efficient in energy production. These technologies could be adopted in other parts of the world to reduce global dependence on fossil fuels.

All the evidence presented above shows that simply increasing fuel prices will not effectively reduce global warming. Stronger alternative measures need to be implemented to tackle this situation.

Band 8 Sample Answer on 'The best way to solve the world's environmental problems'

Environmental problems such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions are largely caused by vehicle exhaust from fossil fuels. I believe that raising fuel prices is an effective strategy that governments can employ to address these issues, as it can reduce vehicle use and encourage eco-friendly habits.

Increasing fuel costs would directly discourage unnecessary car usage. If fuel becomes more expensive, people are likely to think twice before using private vehicles for short or non-essential trips. For example, studies from cities like Stockholm show that higher fuel prices led to a reduction in private vehicle usage, as people opted for public transportation, cycling, or walking instead. This can directly decrease air pollution and congestion, particularly in urban areas where traffic is heavy and emissions are high.

Additionally, higher fuel prices could push individuals to explore alternative forms of transportation, such as public transit or electric vehicles, which are less harmful to the environment. As the cost of fuel rises, people may find it more practical to invest in fuel-efficient or electric vehicles. Many countries that have implemented fuel taxes, like Germany, have observed a shift toward electric cars, which produce zero emissions. This transition is essential for long-term sustainability, as it reduces reliance on fossil fuels and promotes cleaner air.

Of course, this policy may not be without drawbacks, as it could financially impact people who rely on cars for commuting or live in areas without public transit. However, these challenges can be addressed through government incentives for electric vehicles and the expansion of affordable public transportation. For example, subsidies and tax breaks can make electric cars more accessible, and improved public transit systems can offer people practical alternatives to driving.

In conclusion, increasing fuel costs can be a powerful tool to reduce vehicle emissions and encourage sustainable behavior. Although some adjustments may be necessary to address potential challenges, I believe this policy could play a significant role in combating environmental issues.

Band 9 Sample Answer on 'The best way to solve the world's environmental problems'

While vehicle emissions are a significant source of pollution, I disagree with raising fuel prices as a solution. This approach has limited effectiveness and may cause economic hardships for those reliant on cars.

Raising fuel prices may not substantially reduce car usage, especially for people in rural areas with limited public transport. For these individuals, higher fuel costs only add financial pressure without offering alternatives. This policy would disproportionately affect lower-income people, who are already impacted by rising living expenses.

Additionally, higher fuel prices can lead to unintended economic consequences, such as higher costs for food and goods due to increased transportation expenses. This could lead to inflation and place further strain on those with limited incomes, making it an unfair approach to environmental policy.

Instead, governments should focus on improving public transportation, promoting electric vehicles, and investing in renewable energy. For example, Norway’s approach of subsidizing electric vehicles and building a charging network has effectively reduced emissions without the negative impacts of a fuel price hike.

In conclusion, while raising fuel prices may yield minor environmental benefits, it is not a sustainable or fair solution. Investing in sustainable transport and green energy alternatives is a more effective and inclusive way to address environmental challenges.

Vocabulary for 'The best way to solve the world's environmental problems'

Have a look at the IELTS Vocabulary for the sample answers on 'The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel'.

• Discourage
  • Meaning: To make someone less likely to do something.
  • Example: High prices can discourage people from buying unnecessary things.
• Congestion
  • Meaning: The state of being overcrowded or blocked, especially with traffic.
  • Example: The city’s traffic congestion makes it difficult to travel during rush hour.
• Viable
  • Meaning: Capable of working successfully or being effective.
  • Example: Taking public transport is a viable option for people who live near bus stops.
• Subsidies
  • Meaning: Financial assistance given by the government to support certain industries or activities.
  • Example: The government provides subsidies to help people buy electric cars.
• Pollution
  • Meaning: The presence of harmful substances in the environment.
  • Example: The factory’s waste caused pollution in the nearby river.
• Disproportionately
  • Meaning: In a way that is not fair or balanced.
  • Example: High taxes on fuel disproportionately affect low-income families.
• Incentives
  • Meaning: Things that encourage people to do something.
  • Example: Companies offer incentives like bonuses to encourage employees to work harder.
• Alternative
  • Meaning: Another option or choice.
  • Example: Cycling is a great alternative to driving for short trips.
• Emissions
  • Meaning: Gases or substances released into the air, usually from vehicles or factories.
  • Example: Cars that run on gasoline produce harmful emissions that pollute the air.
• Impact
  • Meaning: A strong effect or influence.
  • Example: The new law had a positive impact on the environment by reducing waste.

Now that you have gone through the sample answers on the topic – The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel – it is time for you to try writing on your own and make sure compose a coherent essay in response to a given prompt. Remember to use appropriate vocabulary connectors/linking words for writing for a better IELTS band score.

More Writing Task 2 Essay Topics

• Advertisements Are Becoming More and More Common in Everyday Life
• There is a General Increase In Anti-Social Behavior and Lack of Respect for Others
• Many Offenders Commit More Crimes After Serving The First Punishment
• Some People Prefer to Spend Their Lives Doing The Same Things and Avoiding Change
• Some People Believe That Reading Stories From a Book is Better Than Watching Tv or Playing Computer Games for Children.

Also check:

• Tips to write introduction in IELTS Writing Task 2
• Tips to write great writing essay
• IELTS Sample essays
• How to get band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing recent actual test
• Band 9 Essays Samples
• Advantage and Disadvantage Essays
• IELTS Writing Answer sheet