IELTS.WORK

IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Question In what ways is urbanization harmful to the environment, and how can these negative effects be mitigated or offset by sustainable development practices?

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1710881771

Question: In what ways is urbanization harmful to the environment, and how can these negative effects be mitigated or offset by sustainable development practices?

Model Answer:

Urbanization has been a significant aspect of global growth in recent years. However, it is crucial to consider whether this rapid expansion comes at the cost of environmental degradation. Urbanization, if not managed sustainably, can indeed have numerous negative impacts on the environment. This essay will discuss some of these detrimental effects and propose ways to mitigate or offset them through sustainable development practices.

One of the most apparent consequences of urbanization is deforestation, which results in loss of habitat for countless species and disrupts ecosystem balance. As cities expand, vast tracts of forests are cleared to make way for residential and commercial developments. This not only leads to a decrease in biodiversity but also contributes to climate change due to the release of carbon dioxide from decomposing vegetation. To counteract this, urban planners should incorporate green spaces into city designs, such as parks or green roofs, to provide habitats for wildlife and reduce carbon emissions.

Another significant impact of urbanization is air and water pollution caused by increased industrial activities and the excessive use of non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels. The emission of greenhouse gases from factories, vehicles, and power plants contributes to global warming, which in turn exacerbates extreme weather events such as heatwaves and storms. To alleviate this issue, cities should focus on developing renewable energy solutions like solar or wind power, implement stricter emissions regulations for industries, and encourage the use of public transportation or cycling.

Lastly, urbanization often leads to waste management issues due to inadequate disposal systems. The rapid expansion of cities results in a significant increase in solid waste production, which can cause environmental pollution if not managed correctly. Proper waste collection, recycling programs, and the promotion of zero-waste lifestyles can help address this problem.

In conclusion, while urbanization has undeniably caused harm to the environment, sustainable development practices offer potential solutions for mitigating or offsetting these negative effects. By incorporating green spaces, investing in renewable energy sources, and improving waste management systems, cities can ensure a balance between growth and environmental preservation.

Task 2 Writing: Band Score: 9.0

Source: https://ielts.work/?id=1710881771&page=ielts-writing-practice

For more: https://ielts.work/?page=ielts-writing-practice