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

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1712526316

Topic: The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation

Task Type: Writing Task 2 - Argument

Question: Some people believe that the agricultural industry is a major contributor to environmental degradation, while others argue that it is not responsible for such problems. Discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion.

Model Answer:

The agricultural industry has been at the forefront of human civilization since ancient times. However, in recent decades, concerns have arisen about its impact on the environment. Some people argue that agriculture is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, while others dispute this notion. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and present an informed opinion on the matter.

On one hand, it is evident that agricultural practices can indeed lead to environmental degradation. Monoculture farming, for instance, has led to a loss of biodiversity as farmers prioritize the cultivation of single crop species, which disrupts natural ecosystems. Additionally, the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides in modern agriculture has resulted in soil contamination, water pollution, and the decline of beneficial insect populations. Moreover, deforestation for agricultural purposes has caused habitat loss for numerous plant and animal species, contributing to biodiversity loss.

On the other hand, some argue that it is not the agricultural industry itself but rather unsustainable farming practices that are responsible for environmental degradation. In contrast, sustainable agriculture practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, and precision irrigation can minimize the negative impact on the environment. Furthermore, the adoption of new technologies, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), has the potential to increase agricultural productivity while reducing the use of harmful chemicals.

In my opinion, it is essential to recognize that both sides of the argument have valid points. While agriculture undoubtedly plays a role in environmental degradation, it is important not to overlook the potential benefits that sustainable practices can offer. Therefore, a balanced approach that incorporates sustainable farming methods and innovative technologies should be adopted to mitigate the adverse effects of agricultural practices on the environment.

In terms of IELTS scoring standards:

- Task Response: 9 (The candidate has responded fully to all parts of the question, providing relevant information and ideas.)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 8 (The candidate's response is coherent and well-structured, with appropriate cohesive devices.)
- Lexical Resource: 8 (The candidate demonstrates a broad and varied vocabulary, using a range of complex sentences.)
- Grammar: 8 (The candidate displays a high level of accuracy in grammar, with only minor errors affecting overall clarity.)

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