IELTS HUBIELTS Positive-Negative Essay on Nature & Tech & World
Full IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Fossil fuels (e.g. coal, oil, and gas) are the main source of energy for most countries. However, alternative sources of energy (e.g. wind and solar) have been encouraged for use by some countries.
To what extent is this a positive or negative development?
Write at least 250 words.
Introduction
Paraphrase topic (fossil fuels dominant, shift to renewables). State that the shift has both benefits and difficulties. State overall opinion (mostly negative development).
Body Paragraph 1 View 1
Discuss the positive aspects of alternative energy. Point 1: Environmental benefits (no greenhouse gases, less climate change). Point 2: Limitless supply (constant energy for future generations, reduces shortages).
Body Paragraph 2 View 2
Discuss the negative aspects/difficulties of alternative energy. Point 1: Reliance on unpredictable weather (unreliable, e.g., solar depends on sun/daylight). Point 2: High initial cost for infrastructure (burden for developing countries).
Conclusion
Summarize main points (environmental benefits/sustainability vs. unreliability/high cost). Restate opinion that the shift is mostly negative.
Band 9 Sample Answer:
Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas are the main sources of energy in many countries, but there's a push towards using alternative energy sources like wind and solar. While this change has some benefits, it also comes with many difficulties, making it mostly a negative shift.
Using renewable energy sources like wind and solar is definitely good for the environment. Unlike fossil fuels, they don't release harmful greenhouse gases, which helps to lessen the effects of climate change. Also, renewable energy is limitless, unlike fossil fuels which will eventually run out. This means we can have a constant supply of energy for future generations, reducing the chance of energy shortages caused by the exhaustion of fossil fuels.
But, moving to renewable energy also has its downsides. Firstly, renewable energy sources rely heavily on the weather, which is unpredictable and inconsistent. For example, solar energy can only be collected during the day and when the sky is clear, which makes it unreliable. Secondly, the initial cost of setting up renewable energy infrastructure is much higher than that of traditional energy sources. This financial burden can be especially hard for developing countries, which might not have the necessary funds to put these technologies in place.
In conclusion, while the environmental benefits and sustainability of renewable energy sources are significant, the unreliable nature of these sources and the high initial cost make this shift mostly a negative development.
Band 7 Sample Answer:
Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, form the backbone of energy production in numerous nations, yet a shift towards alternative energy sources, including wind and solar, is being promoted by some. This development, while presenting certain advantages, is predominantly fraught with challenges, making it a largely negative progression.
The utilization of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, is undeniably beneficial for the environment. These sources, unlike fossil fuels, do not emit harmful greenhouse gases, thereby mitigating the impact of climate change. Furthermore, renewable energy is inexhaustible, a stark contrast to fossil fuels which are finite. This ensures a sustainable energy supply for future generations, reducing the risk of energy crises that could arise from the depletion of fossil fuels.
However, the transition towards renewable energy is not without its drawbacks. Firstly, renewable energy sources are highly dependent on weather conditions, which are unpredictable and inconsistent. For instance, solar energy can only be harnessed during daylight hours and under clear skies, which limits its reliability. Secondly, the initial investment required for renewable energy infrastructure is significantly higher than that of traditional energy sources. This financial burden can be particularly challenging for developing countries, which may lack the necessary funds to implement such technologies.
In conclusion, while the environmental benefits and sustainability of renewable energy sources are noteworthy, the unreliable nature of these sources and the high initial investment required make this shift a predominantly negative development.