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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The importance of protecting natural landscapes from development

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Topic: The importance of protecting natural landscapes from development

Question: In what ways can the preservation of natural landscapes benefit both the environment and human society? Discuss and provide relevant examples to support your argument.

Model Answer:

The significance of safeguarding natural landscapes cannot be overstated, as it offers numerous environmental and societal benefits. This essay will elucidate the importance of protecting these areas by examining their role in maintaining biodiversity, providing natural resources, offering recreational opportunities, and acting as a buffer against climate change impacts.

Firstly, the preservation of natural landscapes is crucial for sustaining biodiversity. These ecosystems serve as habitats for countless plant and animal species, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. For instance, the Amazon rainforest, a vast expanse of tropical rainforest in South America, is home to more than 400 billion individual trees and over 1.5 million species of plants, animals, and insects. Deforestation and urbanization have already led to the loss of significant portions of this vital ecosystem, resulting in a decline in biodiversity and disrupting the balance of nature. By protecting these natural landscapes, we can ensure the survival and conservation of countless species, many of which may hold potential medicinal or agricultural value.

Secondly, natural landscapes are essential sources of various resources, including water, timber, and food. For example, the boreal forests in North America and Russia provide a steady supply of timber for construction and paper production while also playing a vital role in water cycling by absorbing rainfall and releasing it back into the atmosphere through transpiration. Additionally, these forests offer habitat to numerous animal species that serve as natural pest controllers for agricultural lands, thereby reducing the need for chemical interventions. By safeguarding these landscapes from development, we can sustain these invaluable resources and promote long-term environmental sustainability.

Moreover, natural landscapes provide recreational opportunities that contribute to human well-being. Activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching in protected areas offer both physical exercise and mental relaxation, helping to reduce stress levels and improve overall health. For example, Japan's forest therapy program, called "shinrin-yoku" or "forest bathing," has gained worldwide attention for its therapeutic benefits. By preserving these landscapes, we create opportunities for future generations to engage in such activities and experience the wonders of nature firsthand.

Lastly, natural landscapes play a critical role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. For instance, forests absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to global warming. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), reforestation efforts could remove up to 37% of human-produced CO2 emissions annually if implemented globally. Consequently, protecting these ecosystems is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas concentrations and slowing down climate change.

In conclusion, the preservation of natural landscapes benefits both the environment and human society in myriad ways. By safeguarding these areas, we ensure the survival of biodiversity, sustain essential resources, enhance recreational opportunities, and combat climate change impacts. As such, it is imperative that we prioritize the protection of these landscapes to secure a healthy and prosperous future for generations to come.

Overall Score: Band 9

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