Introduction
Environmental issues appear regularly in IELTS Writing Task 2. Whether it’s climate change, pollution, or renewable energy, the examiner wants to see clear ideas, precise vocabulary, and academic tone.
This page gives you:
- Realistic Band 7–8 ideas for common IELTS environment topics
- High-level environmental vocabulary with definitions and examples
- A sample thesis using “this essay will argue that…”
- Grammar tools (like question tags) for sentence variety
- Internal SEO links to related vocabulary, writing samples, and essay guides
This guide is part of the IELTS Task 2 Writing Hub. You may also like:
- [IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Types Explained]
- [Band 8 Environment Essay Sample]
- [Vocabulary for IELTS by Topic]
- [Coherence and Cohesion in IELTS Writing]
- [Grammar Tools for Band 7 Essays]
Example Essay Question
“Environmental problems are becoming a global issue. Who should take more responsibility: individuals or governments?”
Sample Band 8 Thesis
This essay will argue that governments should take primary responsibility for environmental protection because they have both the legislative power and the economic resources to implement meaningful change.
Band 7–8 Ideas (Government vs Individual)
Governments
- Can pass environmental regulations
- Control infrastructure and industry
- Fund renewable energy programs
- Penalize polluters through taxation or fines
Individuals
- Can reduce plastic use, recycle, and save energy
- Can pressure governments through protest and activism
- Can change consumption patterns (e.g., drive less, eat plant-based)
High-Impact Vocabulary (With Examples)
1. Carbon footprint
Definition: The amount of carbon dioxide one’s activities produce.
Example: Switching to public transport can reduce your carbon footprint significantly.
2. Sustainable development
Definition: Economic growth that meets present needs without harming future generations.
Example: Sustainable development is key to balancing economic progress and environmental protection.
3. Renewable energy
Definition: Energy from sources that do not run out (e.g., solar, wind).
Example: Many countries are investing in renewable energy to combat climate change.
4. Environmental degradation
Definition: The destruction or deterioration of the environment.
Example: Rapid industrialization often leads to severe environmental degradation.
5. Greenhouse gas emissions
Definition: Gases that trap heat and contribute to global warming.
Example: Cutting greenhouse gas emissions is essential to limit rising global temperatures.
Grammar Point: Tag Questions for Tone
Tag questions add variation and a slightly reflective tone.
Structure:
Statement + opposite question tag
Examples:
- Climate change is a global issue, isn’t it?
- Governments can do more, can’t they?
Use 1–2 per essay to show flexibility — especially in body or conclusion.
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Footer
Want to upgrade your IELTS environment essay?
- Download our free PDF: “25 Environment Essay Phrases with Examples”
- Explore Band 8 Essay Samples by Topic (including environment, education, health)
- Study our full Vocabulary by Topic Series for real power in your writing
- Join the IELTS Power Writing Course to turn your ideas into Band 8 paragraphs
This guide is part of our comprehensive IELTS system, created by a veteran IELTS instructor with 25+ years of experience helping students achieve real results — with structure, clarity, and persuasive academic writing.
IELTS 5 to 6 