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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The importance of protecting natural resources from overexploitation

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Topic: The importance of protecting natural resources from overexploitation

Question: In recent years, the world has seen an increase in the exploitation of natural resources. Some people argue that this is necessary for economic growth and development, while others believe it can lead to long-term damage to our environment. Discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion on whether or not we should protect our natural resources from overexploitation.

Model Answer:

Over the past few decades, there has been a significant increase in the exploitation of natural resources, particularly due to rapid economic growth and urbanization. While some argue that this is necessary for development and progress, others maintain that it can result in long-term environmental damage. In this essay, I will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own view on whether we should protect our natural resources from overexploitation.

On one hand, the advocates of resource exploitation assert that the extraction of these resources is essential for economic growth and development. They argue that through the utilization of natural resources, industries can create jobs and contribute to the overall GDP of a country. For example, the coal mining industry provides employment opportunities to thousands of people worldwide, thereby improving their standard of living. Additionally, these resources can be harnessed to develop new technologies and innovations that help improve the quality of life for millions. As such, they believe that striking a balance between resource extraction and environmental conservation is crucial for sustainable development.

On the other hand, there are those who argue against overexploitation of natural resources due to its potential long-term damage to our environment. The destruction of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and pollution caused by excessive extraction can have severe consequences on the planet's health. Moreover, the depletion of nonrenewable resources such as fossil fuels could lead to their eventual exhaustion, rendering them unavailable for future generations. To counter this, they emphasize the importance of adopting sustainable practices and shifting towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.

In my opinion, it is our responsibility to protect our natural resources from overexploitation. While economic growth and development are necessary, we should not sacrifice the health of our environment in the process. Implementing sustainable practices and investing in renewable energy sources can help us achieve both economic progress and environmental conservation simultaneously. For instance, governments can provide incentives for companies that adopt eco-friendly manufacturing processes, or implement stricter regulations on resource extraction to minimize its adverse effects on ecosystems.

In conclusion, the importance of protecting natural resources from overexploitation cannot be understated. While the benefits of resource exploitation for economic growth and development are undeniable, we must also acknowledge the long-term damage it can cause to our environment. By striking a balance between resource utilization and environmental conservation, we can ensure sustainable development for present and future generations alike.

Band Score: 7.5/9

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