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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should governments invest in carbon capture and storage technology?

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Topic: Should governments invest in carbon capture and storage technology?

Model Answer:
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from large industrial sources such as power plants and cement factories. Governments around the world have a responsibility to mitigate the effects of climate change, and one of the key strategies they can employ is investing in CCS technology. However, there are various factors to consider when deciding whether or not governments should invest in this technology.

On one hand, there are several reasons why investment in CCS technology is necessary. Firstly, global greenhouse gas emissions need to be drastically reduced in order to limit the impacts of climate change and prevent irreversible damage to ecosystems and human societies. CCS offers a means of capturing CO2 emissions from large stationary sources and storing them underground, thereby reducing their contribution to global warming. Secondly, as the world's population continues to grow, energy demand is expected to increase, placing greater pressure on non-renewable fossil fuels. CCS technology can help ensure that these fuels can be used in a more environmentally sustainable manner. Finally, there are economic incentives for investing in CCS. Industries such as steel and cement production, which are significant sources of CO2 emissions, could benefit from the use of CCS by reducing their carbon footprint and potentially avoiding emissions-related taxes or charges.

On the other hand, there are also arguments against government investment in CCS technology. One major concern is the cost of implementing and operating CCS systems, which can be extremely high. Governments already face significant financial pressures from various sectors, such as healthcare, education, and defense, and allocating funds to CCS may divert resources away from these essential areas. Additionally, critics argue that investing in renewable energy sources is a more effective and cost-efficient approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They point out that the development and deployment of renewables have made significant progress in recent years, with costs continuing to fall.

In conclusion, while there are valid reasons for governments to consider investing in carbon capture and storage technology, they must also weigh these arguments against the potential drawbacks. As a responsible global citizen, each government should carefully evaluate their own circumstances, national energy demand, and available resources when deciding whether or not to invest in CCS. By adopting a strategic approach to climate change mitigation, governments can ensure that their investment decisions are both environmentally sound and economically sustainable.

Task 2 Writing Score: Band 8.5

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