IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation
IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1712636575
Writing Task 2 Topic: The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation
In recent years, agriculture has emerged as a significant contributor to environmental degradation. This essay will discuss the primary factors behind this phenomenon and examine potential solutions that can mitigate the negative impact of agricultural practices on the environment.
Overview:
The main purpose of this writing task is to evaluate your ability to present a well-structured, logical argument that demonstrates an understanding of the causes and consequences of agricultural environmental degradation, as well as offering potential solutions to address these issues. Your response should include a clear introduction outlining the topic, body paragraphs that expand upon each factor with relevant examples, and a conclusion that summarizes your main points and offers suggestions for future action.
Model Answer:
Agriculture is an industry that has played a vital role in human civilization, providing sustenance and resources necessary for survival. However, modern agricultural practices have contributed significantly to environmental degradation, with various factors exacerbating the situation. This essay will analyze three major causes of this phenomenon – deforestation, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and intensive farming methods – and propose potential solutions that can mitigate these adverse effects on the environment.
One significant factor contributing to agricultural environmental degradation is deforestation, which is often carried out to create more arable land for agriculture. Deforestation leads to habitat loss, soil erosion, and disruption of natural water cycles, all of which have negative impacts on ecosystems. Additionally, the removal of trees reduces the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. To combat this issue, reforestation efforts should be promoted, particularly in regions with high rates of deforestation. Moreover, sustainable land management practices can help preserve existing forests while still meeting agricultural demands.
Another cause of environmental degradation in agriculture is the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers. The overuse of these chemicals leads to soil contamination, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. For example, excessive application of nitrogen-based fertilizers can result in high levels of nitrates in water sources, posing health risks for humans and aquatic life. To address this problem, the implementation of integrated pest management strategies can help reduce reliance on harmful chemicals. Farmers should be encouraged to adopt organic farming methods and invest in research and development to create more eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pesticides and fertilizers.
Lastly, intensive farming practices have a considerable impact on the environment. Monoculture, which involves growing single crops over large areas, reduces biodiversity and makes agricultural systems more susceptible to diseases and pests. Furthermore, such practices often require substantial amounts of water, leading to over-extraction from local water sources and depletion of groundwater reserves. To mitigate these effects, a shift towards sustainable farming practices that prioritize crop rotation, agroforestry, and water conservation is essential. Governments should provide support for farmers transitioning to these methods through subsidies, training programs, and access to new technologies.
In conclusion, agriculture has played an undeniably significant role in contributing to environmental degradation. Addressing the factors of deforestation, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and intensive farming practices are crucial steps towards mitigating these negative impacts. Through reforestation efforts, implementation of integrated pest management strategies, and transitioning to sustainable farming methods, it is possible to create a more environmentally friendly agriculture sector that ensures the well-being of both people and ecosystems.
Task 2 Writing
Score:
Band 7.5
This response demonstrates a clear understanding of the causes and consequences of agricultural environmental degradation and offers potential solutions to address these issues effectively. The writer presents a well-structured, logical argument with relevant examples and addresses all aspects of the question. However, there are some minor grammar errors that slightly affect the clarity of the essay. Overall, this response is highly effective in conveying the intended message and would likely receive a
Band 7.5 score on an IELTS test.
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