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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation.

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Task 2 Writing Topic: The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation.

Model Answer:
Agriculture has played a significant role in the economic development and food production of many countries around the world. However, it is also a major contributor to environmental degradation. This essay will discuss the various ways in which agriculture contributes to environmental problems such as deforestation, soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, water pollution, and climate change.

Firstly, agriculture has led to widespread deforestation, as vast areas of forests are cleared to create farmland for food production. This not only leads to a loss of habitat for numerous species but also affects the global carbon cycle by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by trees. Moreover, deforestation results in soil erosion, as trees act as natural windbreaks and help to hold the soil together. When these protective trees are removed, soil is more susceptible to being washed or blown away, leading to soil degradation and loss of fertility.

Secondly, the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture has had a significant impact on biodiversity. The overuse of these chemicals can contaminate water sources, affecting aquatic life and ecosystems downstream. Furthermore, the excessive use of fertilizers also leads to the eutrophication of water bodies, causing algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels in water, resulting in mass die-offs of fish and other aquatic organisms.

Thirdly, agriculture is a major source of water pollution due to the runoff of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste into rivers and lakes. These pollutants not only harm aquatic life but also make the water unsafe for human consumption and irrigation purposes. Additionally, large-scale irrigation projects often result in the over-extraction of groundwater, leading to the depletion of aquifers and lowering of water tables.

Lastly, agriculture is a significant contributor to climate change due to its role in greenhouse gas emissions. The use of fossil fuels for machinery and fertilizer production, as well as the conversion of forests into farmland, all contribute to the increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. Moreover, livestock farming, particularly methane-emitting cattle rearing, also plays a role in exacerbating global warming.

In conclusion, agriculture is an essential sector for food production and economic growth; however, it is crucial to recognize its negative impacts on the environment. By adopting sustainable practices such as precision farming, reducing chemical usage, and promoting agroforestry, it is possible to mitigate the environmental degradation caused by agricultural activities.

Overall band score: Band 8.5
The essay provides a comprehensive analysis of the role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation and offers potential solutions. The structure is coherent, and the argumentation is clear and logical. However, some minor grammar and punctuation errors could be improved.

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