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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should governments ban singleuse plastics?

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1711234402

IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Should governments ban single-use plastics?

Model Answer:
In recent years, the increasing amount of plastic waste has become a major environmental concern worldwide. Single-use plastics, such as bags, straws, and cutlery, have received particular attention due to their short lifespan and negative impact on ecosystems. This essay will explore the reasons why governments should consider banning single-use plastics, the challenges associated with implementing such a ban, and whether the benefits outweigh these challenges.

Firstly, single-use plastics pose significant environmental threats. They are made from non-renewable resources like petroleum and natural gas, which contribute to the depletion of our planet's finite energy reserves. Moreover, they are often not recycled correctly, leading to the accumulation of plastic waste in landfills and oceans. This plastic pollution harms wildlife, as animals ingest or become entangled in these materials, leading to injuries or death.

Secondly, the production of single-use plastics requires a considerable amount of energy and generates greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing or eliminating the use of such plastics, governments can help combat climate change and promote more sustainable alternatives. For example, reusable bags made from fabric or biodegradable materials can replace single-use plastic bags, significantly reducing waste and carbon footprints.

However, implementing a ban on single-use plastics comes with challenges. The transition to alternative products requires financial investment in research, development, and production of eco-friendly alternatives. Additionally, consumers need to be educated about the benefits of these new materials and encouraged to adopt them through incentives or regulations. Furthermore, some industries rely heavily on single-use plastics for packaging or operational purposes; a ban may disrupt their operations, necessitating government support or assistance in finding sustainable solutions.

Despite these challenges, the benefits of banning single-use plastics seem to outweigh the drawbacks. Governments can take advantage of the opportunity to promote a circular economy by incentivizing recycling and waste reduction. Furthermore, reducing plastic pollution will not only benefit the environment but also human health, as exposure to microplastics has been linked to various health issues.

In conclusion, while implementing a ban on single-use plastics presents certain challenges, it is essential for governments to consider the long-term environmental and health impacts of these materials. By investing in research, education, and support for businesses transitioning to sustainable alternatives, governments can contribute significantly to mitigating plastic pollution and protecting our planet for future generations.

Score (using IELTS scoring standards):
- Task Response: 9
- Coherence and Cohesion: 9
- Lexical Resource: 9
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 9

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