GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 262
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that the most effective way to reduce industrial pollution is to tax the companies which cause them. Others think that there are better ways to do so.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
Many people opine that imposing the carbon tax is the most useful approach to decrease industrial pollutions. Yet others believe there are other better measures to curb this issue. This essay will discuss both viewpoints before venturing an opinion.
The advocates of levying tax argue that it reduces pollution in two ways. First, the increased tax burden will motivate businesses to switch to sustainable manufacturing systems so as to remain competitive in the market. For instance, they can use clean energy such as wind energy, solar energy, and hydro-powered sources. Second, it will also raise the production cost of goods. This, in turn, will cut down consumption and hence pollution. Thus, introducing tax can play an effective role in reducing industrial pollution.
The opponents of taxing, on the other hand, claim that there are far better solutions to the problem. One of the most effective ways to tackle industrial pollution is source controlling. Adopting green technology, providing employees with efficient training for safe use and development of advanced technology for disposal of waste, and being more cautious about using raw materials can help curb industrial pollution at the source. Cleaning resources is another better remedy for industrial pollution. In simple words, organic methods should be employed to clean the water and soil. A good example here is bioremediation technology. It uses microbes to degrade substances that are detrimental to the environment.
However, in my opinion, awareness among consumers is the best way to decrease industrial pollution. In simple words, if the public is aware of the danger of pollution, they would adjust their demand for the product from the company, which causes pollution. This, in turn, will cut down industrial pollution as companies have to switch to clean energy and build a waste treatment plant, consequently reducing pollution.
In conclusion, in order to control industrial pollution, controlling sources, cleaning resources, and public awareness are even better remedies than taxing heavily on companies. I believe that public awareness, among others, is the most powerful tool to control industrial pollution.