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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The importance of protecting coral reefs from bleaching

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Writing Task 2 Topic: The importance of protecting coral reefs from bleaching

Question: Some people argue that the protection of coral reefs is not necessary because their ecosystem functions are well-balanced and self-sustaining, while others believe that human intervention is essential to ensure the survival of these fragile environments. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Model Answer:

The importance of protecting coral reefs from bleaching cannot be overstated. Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," are vital ecosystems that support a diverse range of marine life. While it is true that these environments possess an inherent capacity for self-regulation and adaptation, they also face numerous threats from human activities such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Consequently, protecting coral reefs is critical to maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems and preserving biodiversity.

One argument in favor of human intervention is that coral reefs are highly sensitive to changes in water temperature and acidity levels. As a result of global warming, ocean temperatures have risen significantly, causing mass coral bleaching events. Bleaching occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues due to stress, leading to their death if the stressors are not mitigated. In this context, human intervention through policies and practices aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial for the long-term survival of these ecosystems.

Moreover, overfishing and destructive fishing practices have severely impacted coral reefs worldwide. By depleting fish populations, these activities disrupt the balance of marine ecosystems, allowing invasive species to proliferate and outcompete native flora and fauna. Consequently, human intervention in the form of sustainable fishing regulations is necessary to safeguard the health and integrity of coral reefs.

On the other hand, some people argue that coral reefs possess a natural resilience that allows them to recover from disturbances without external assistance. For instance, reef-building species like corals have evolved over millions of years to withstand various environmental pressures. Additionally, coral reef ecosystems exhibit a high degree of redundancy, ensuring that the loss of one species does not lead to the collapse of the entire system. These factors suggest that natural processes are adequate for maintaining the health of coral reefs.

However, while it is true that coral reefs possess inherent resilience, the current rate and scale of human-induced threats have outpaced their capacity to recover. As a result, protecting coral reefs from further degradation requires a combination of both natural processes and active human intervention.

In conclusion, while it is essential to acknowledge and respect the self-regulating capabilities of coral reef ecosystems, they also need proactive protection measures to counter the escalating threats posed by human activities. By implementing sustainable fishing practices, reducing pollution, and mitigating climate change, we can ensure the survival of these invaluable environments and the myriad of life forms that depend on them.

IELTS Band Score: 9.0

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