TASK 2:
ESSAY INFORMATION:
Written by: IELTS I-Ready, 11/11/2025
Marked by: Ex-BC Examiner
(IELTS Academic – 10/11/2025)
Question: Pollution and other environmental damages are caused by a country developing and becoming richer. This problem cannot be avoided. To what extent do you agree?
ANSWER:
It is often argued that environmental destruction is an unavoidable consequence of economic growth. Although rapid development can indeed cause ecological pressures, I mostly disagree with this view because nations today have the capacity to grow sustainably.
Those who believe that pollution is inevitable point out that industrialisation typically requires large amounts of energy and creates significant waste. As factories expand, air quality declines, rivers become contaminated, and natural resources are depleted. This pattern was clearly seen in many developing countries during the early stages of industrial growth. However, this argument overlooks the fact that such damage occurs mainly when regulations are weak, not because economic development inherently causes harm. With appropriate environmental standards, such as emission limits, mandatory waste treatment, and strict monitoring, much of this damage can be prevented even as the economy grows.
In fact, wealth and technological progress can actively support environmental protection. Firstly, richer nations have greater financial and technological capacity to invest in clean energy, public transport, and green construction, all of which reduce pollution while maintaining productivity. Countries like Denmark and Japan have demonstrated that economic growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand. Secondly, development encourages innovation, which allows industries to adopt cleaner production methods. Carbon-capture technology, renewable energy systems, and low-emission manufacturing are solutions made possible precisely because economies continue to advance, thereby turning growth into a driver of environmental improvement rather than deterioration.
In conclusion, while I admit that economic development may initially create environmental pressures, I largely contend that pollution is far from unavoidable. With strong regulations and modern technology, nations can pursue sustainable growth without sacrificing environmental quality. (271 words)
