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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is geoengineering a viable solution to climate change?

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Is geoengineering a viable solution to climate change?

Model Answer:

Geoengineering, also known as climate engineering, refers to the deliberate and large-scale intervention in the Earth's natural systems to counteract the effects of climate change. The concept has been gaining attention in recent years as global temperatures continue to rise due to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels. This essay will discuss whether geoengineering is a viable solution to combat climate change or if it presents more challenges than solutions.

To begin with, proponents of geoengineering argue that it can provide a short-term solution to mitigate the effects of climate change. For instance, one proposed method, known as solar radiation management (SRM), involves injecting aerosols into the atmosphere to reflect sunlight back into space and reduce global temperatures. Another approach, carbon dioxide removal (CDR), involves capturing and storing atmospheric CO2 in geological formations or converting it into useful products. While these methods may help alleviate immediate climate impacts, they do not address the root cause of the problem: the continued emission of greenhouse gases.

Moreover, critics argue that geoengineering projects carry significant risks and uncertainties. For example, SRM could lead to unpredictable changes in weather patterns, such as prolonged droughts or sudden floods. Furthermore, CDR methods may consume vast amounts of energy and require massive land areas, which could have adverse environmental consequences, including loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystems.

Additionally, the implementation of geoengineering projects raises ethical concerns and potential conflicts between nations. As climate change affects every country, geoengineering solutions must be universally acceptable and implemented. However, countries with abundant resources might have a more significant influence on the decision-making process, potentially leading to inequitable outcomes that disproportionately affect less privileged nations.

In conclusion, while geoengineering may offer some short-term relief from the effects of climate change, it is not a comprehensive or sustainable solution. The risks and uncertainties associated with these interventions, along with ethical concerns and potential conflicts between nations, make it a less viable option compared to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy sources, sustainable development, and international cooperation.

Score: Band 9 - This answer provides a comprehensive analysis of the pros and cons of geoengineering as a solution to climate change, highlighting the potential risks and ethical concerns. The argument is well-structured, and the response aligns with the expectations of an IELTS Writing Task 2 candidate at a Band 9 level.

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