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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is carbon trading an effective strategy reducing emissions?

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1711541437

Task 2 Topic: "Is carbon trading an effective strategy for reducing emissions?"

Model Answer:

Carbon trading, also known as cap-and-trade or emission trading, is a market-based approach to controlling pollution by providing economic incentives for reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases. In this system, the government sets a cap on the total amount of certain greenhouse gases that can be emitted by industry. Companies are then allocated a limited number of emission permits, which they can trade with one another as needed. This approach is designed to provide an economic incentive for companies to reduce their emissions and find innovative ways to cut costs while staying within the cap.

Carbon trading has several potential benefits over more traditional regulatory approaches to pollution control. First, it allows companies that are already operating efficiently to profit from their reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. This encourages innovation in environmentally friendly technologies and practices, as companies can make money by reducing emissions beyond what the government mandates. Second, carbon trading provides a flexible and adaptable approach to environmental regulation. As technological advances are made or economic conditions change, companies can adjust their emissions reduction strategies accordingly, ensuring that the cap on greenhouse gas emissions remains effective over time.

However, there are also several potential drawbacks to carbon trading that should be considered. One of the main concerns is that carbon trading could lead to a situation known as "hot air," in which companies in countries with lax environmental regulations sell their excess permits to companies in more environmentally strict jurisdictions. This practice would essentially allow polluters to continue emitting greenhouse gases while profiting from it, undermining the overall goal of reducing emissions. Additionally, carbon trading may not be effective in situations where the most efficient way to reduce emissions is to shut down a polluting facility altogether. In such cases, companies might prefer to buy permits instead of investing in costly new technologies or processes that would allow them to continue operating while still adhering to the cap.

In conclusion, carbon trading has the potential to be an effective strategy for reducing emissions by providing economic incentives for companies to innovate and adapt their practices. However, it is essential that the system be carefully monitored and regulated to avoid pitfalls such as "hot air" and ensure that it serves its intended purpose of protecting the environment.

Scoring:

- Task Response: The response directly addresses the question and provides a clear and detailed answer, which is appropriate for Band Score 8 or higher.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The model answer is well-structured, with a logical flow of ideas that are coherently organized and connected. This level of organization supports a Band Score of at least 8.
- Lexical Resource: The language used in the response is precise and varied, demonstrating an extensive vocabulary and the use of complex grammatical structures. This contributes to a Band Score of at least 8.
- Pronunciation: As this is a written test, pronunciation is not a factor in scoring. However, spelling and punctuation are essential for clear communication. In this case, the response has no significant errors, which would be expected for a high Band Score of at least 8.
- Moral: The overall quality of the response is appropriate for a Band Score of at least 7, as it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the topic and provides a well-reasoned argument supported by relevant evidence and examples.

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