IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Write an essay on the following The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation.
IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1711610353
Task:Write an essay on the following topic:"The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation."
Model Answer:
Agriculture is a critical industry that provides food, employment, and materials for various industries. However, it also contributes significantly to environmental degradation. In this essay, I will discuss the primary causes of agricultural pollution and their consequences on the environment, as well as potential solutions to mitigate these adverse effects.
Firstly, excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides in modern agriculture is a major contributor to environmental degradation. The overuse of synthetic fertilizers leads to an increase in nitrogen and phosphorus levels in water bodies, causing eutrophication and algal blooms that destroy aquatic ecosystems. Pesticides, on the other hand, can contaminate soil and water, affecting both plants and animals in the food chain.
Secondly, deforestation to create more farmland is another significant factor. Deforestation disrupts natural habitats and biodiversity, leading to the extinction of various species. Additionally, it increases greenhouse gas emissions by releasing stored carbon dioxide from trees into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
Thirdly, intensive livestock farming produces high levels of methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas that exacerbates global warming. Furthermore, large-scale monoculture practices can lead to soil degradation and loss of genetic diversity, making crops more susceptible to pests, diseases, and climate change impacts.
To mitigate these environmental problems, sustainable agriculture practices should be promoted. Organic farming techniques that minimize the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides can help reduce pollution levels in water bodies and soil. Agroforestry, a practice involving growing trees alongside crops, can help combat deforestation while providing additional benefits such as improved soil fertility and biodiversity conservation.
Moreover, implementing a sustainable livestock management system that focuses on efficient feed conversion rates, reduced methane emissions through diet modifications, and recycling manure for fertilizer production can contribute to mitigating environmental degradation caused by intensive farming practices.
In conclusion, agriculture plays a significant role in contributing to environmental degradation through the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, deforestation, and intensive livestock farming practices. However, adopting sustainable agricultural methods can help address these issues and protect our environment for future generations.
Score:
Band 9.0
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