IELTS HUBIELTS Discussion Essay on Nature & Work & Money
Full IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Some think that climate change reforms will negatively affect business. Others feel they are an opportunity for businesses.
Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Write at least 250 words.
Introduction
Paraphrase the two main viewpoints on climate change reforms' effect on business (negative vs. opportunity). State own opinion (opportunity view).
Body Paragraph 1 View 1
Discuss the view that climate change reforms negatively affect businesses. Points: High cost of green practices (e.g., updating factories, renewable energy) hurting small businesses; strict environmental rules limiting productivity/profit (e.g., cutting production to meet standards).
Body Paragraph 2 View 2 And Opinion
Discuss the view that climate change reforms are an opportunity for businesses, strongly stating this as own opinion. Points: Encourage creativity and create new markets (e.g., sustainable technologies, Tesla's success); improve company reputation and brand (e.g., attract eco-conscious customers/investors, Nielsen study on willingness to pay more).
Conclusion
Summarize the main arguments from both sides (problems vs. opportunities). Reaffirm own opinion that the opportunities are more powerful.
Band 9 Sample Answer:
In the conversation about climate change, there are two main viewpoints: some believe that environmental changes could harm businesses, while others see them as a great chance for growth. I agree with the second viewpoint, as I see a lot of potential for development and creativity in dealing with climate change.
Those who worry about the effects of climate change changes on businesses do have valid points. They say that moving towards more environmentally friendly practices requires a lot of money, which could hurt smaller businesses. For example, updating factories with green machinery or changing to renewable energy can be too costly for smaller companies. They also argue that strict environmental rules can limit productivity. For instance, businesses might have to cut down their production to meet carbon emission standards, which could lead to less profit and job cuts.
However, I strongly believe that climate change changes can actually benefit businesses. Firstly, they can encourage creativity and create new markets. Companies that are the first to develop sustainable technologies or green products could get ahead of their competitors, as customers are more and more interested in eco-friendly choices. For example, Tesla's success in the electric car market shows how profitable sustainable creativity can be. Secondly, climate change changes can improve a company's reputation and brand. By showing a commitment to sustainability, businesses can attract customers and investors who care about the environment, which can increase their market share and profits. A Nielsen study found that 66% of customers are willing to pay more for sustainable products, which highlights the potential advantages of environmental responsibility for businesses.
In conclusion, while there are reasonable arguments that climate change changes could create problems for businesses, I believe that the opportunities they offer, like encouraging creativity and improving brand image, are much more powerful.
Band 7 Sample Answer:
In the realm of climate change discourse, a dichotomy of perspectives exists: some postulate that environmental reforms pose a threat to business, while others perceive them as a golden opportunity. I align myself with the latter view, seeing the potential for growth and innovation in the face of climate change.
Those who fear the impact of climate change reforms on business are not without their reasons. They argue that the transition to greener practices necessitates substantial financial investment, potentially crippling smaller businesses. For instance, retrofitting factories with eco-friendly machinery or switching to renewable energy sources can be prohibitively expensive for companies with limited resources. Additionally, they contend that stringent environmental regulations can stifle productivity. To illustrate, businesses might have to reduce their output to meet carbon emission standards, which could lead to decreased profits and job losses.
Despite the aforementioned concerns, I firmly believe that climate change reforms can be a boon to businesses. Firstly, they can stimulate innovation and open up new markets. Companies that pioneer sustainable technologies or green products may gain a competitive edge, as consumers are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly options. For instance, Tesla's success in the electric vehicle market demonstrates the potential profitability of sustainable innovation. Secondly, climate change reforms can enhance a company's reputation and brand image. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, businesses can attract environmentally-conscious customers and investors, thereby increasing their market share and profitability. A study by Nielsen found that 66% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable goods, underscoring the potential benefits of environmental stewardship for businesses.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments suggesting that climate change reforms could pose challenges for businesses, I am convinced that the opportunities they present, such as fostering innovation and enhancing brand image, are far more potent.