IELTS Writing 2 Topic: In many places new homes are needed

In many places, new homes are needed, but the only space available for building them is in the countryside. Some people believe it is more important to protect the countryside and not build new homes there. What is your opinion about this? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Man has caused enormous damage to nature. With cities getting overcrowded day-by-day, people are considering building homes in the countryside. In my opinion, this move is not favourable. The government should plan to accommodate new homes within the city limits and stop venturing into the countryside. In the forthcoming paragraphs, I shall explain the importance of preserving the countryside. 

Sloughs in the countryside need to be protected for various reasons. Sloughs are wetlands formed when freshwaters from rivers and saltwater from the seas meet in a particular place. Sloughs are capable of water retention. Also, they are capable of using this stored water in times of drought. Because of this unique capacity, they support many ecosystems and attract a lot of birds. Recent studies of sloughs have revealed that these areas can meet the water needs of an entire city. The studies have also emphasised that sloughs should be declared as places of importance. Since sloughs are wetlands, they are not suitable for construction. 

They contribute to the economy, as well. By facilitating agriculture, they are important suppliers of food. Besides, they are also important places of tourist attraction. If maintained well, they can help a nation to achieve self-sustenance. By destroying the countryside, we are losing out on water resources, food and depriving ourselves of the innumerous benefits that nature is ready to provide. 

Although it is essential to accommodate everyone, the protection of the countryside takes priority over it.

In conclusion, the countryside is home to irreplaceable biodiversity. By exploiting them for construction, we are endangering many species and degrading the environment. Furthermore, by building new homes on potentially unfit lands, we are risking our lives as well.