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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should governments provide incentives sustainable transportation?

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Task 2:Title: Should governments provide incentives for sustainable transportation?

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the need to protect the environment and promote sustainability. One area where this is particularly relevant is in the field of transportation. Some argue that governments should provide incentives to encourage people to use more sustainable modes of transport such as cycling, walking, and public transport, while others believe that it is not the responsibility of the government to dictate personal choices in this way. Discuss both these viewpoints and give your own opinion on whether governments should provide incentives for sustainable transportation.

Model Answer:

In the present age of rapid urbanization and industrialization, the need to protect the environment has become more crucial than ever. The transportation sector plays a significant role in contributing to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, providing incentives for sustainable transportation is an effective measure that can significantly reduce the ecological footprint caused by the transport sector. Governments around the world have started recognizing the importance of promoting eco-friendly modes of transport. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and provide a conclusion based on the analysis.

On one hand, it is argued that the role of governments should be limited when it comes to personal choices, including the mode of transportation. Proponents of this view believe that individuals should be free to choose their preferred method of travel without any interference from the government. They argue that by providing incentives for sustainable transport, the government may inadvertently create an unlevel playing field where some modes of transport have an unfair advantage over others. For example, if cycling is promoted through financial incentives such as tax breaks or subsidies, it might discourage people from using other forms of transport like walking or carpooling, which are also eco-friendly but less convenient in certain situations.

On the other hand, proponents of government intervention argue that the benefits of promoting sustainable transportation far outweigh any potential disadvantages. Governments can play a crucial role in encouraging people to adopt greener modes of transport by offering financial incentives such as tax breaks or subsidies for public transport users or those who choose to cycle or walk instead of driving. Additionally, they can invest in infrastructure development like dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and efficient public transportation networks, which will not only promote sustainable living but also enhance the overall quality of life in urban areas.

Moreover, the cost of inaction is far greater than the cost of implementing policies that encourage sustainable transport. The health and environmental consequences of relying on unsustainable modes of transport like private cars are significant. Air pollution from vehicle emissions contributes to respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular diseases, while climate change exacerbates extreme weather events and threatens food security. Therefore, it is the responsibility of governments to take proactive measures to mitigate these negative impacts.

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments against government intervention in personal choices regarding transportation, the potential benefits of promoting sustainable transport far outweigh any perceived drawbacks. Governments should provide incentives for eco-friendly modes of transport and invest in infrastructure development that supports this transition. This approach will not only help reduce the environmental impact but also improve public health and overall quality of life.

Score (based on IELTS scoring standards):

Task Response: 9.0
Coherence & Cohesion: 8.5
Lexical Resource: 7.5
Grammatical Range & Accuracy: 8.5

Overall Band Score: 8.2

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