Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades - IELTS Writing Task 2 Cause/Solution Essay

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, a Cause-Solution essay, also called a problem-solution, asks you to discuss the reasons behind a problem and suggest possible ways to solve it. 

For example, you might be asked to address a topic like: "Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades." In such essays, it's important to clearly explain the causes behind the issue and give practical solutions to tackle the issue.

In this article on the 'IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem-Solution Essay: Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades,' we will explore 2 expert-written sample answers that will address the underlying issues behind this problem and discuss effective solutions to address the problem. 

So why wait? Let’s have a look at the IELTS Cause - Solution essay - Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades now!

Question

Water pollution has been an increasing problem over the last few decades. What causes water pollution? How can we prevent this problem?

Structure Breakdown

Essay Type

• Cause and Solution Essay

Introduction

• Paraphrase the topic sentence
• Mention what the subsequent paragraphs will be about.

Body Paragraphs

• State the causes of water pollution.
• Suggest possible solutions to tackle the problem of water pollution.

Conclusion

• Summarize the topic and mention the solution in brief.

Band 8 Sample Answer - Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades

Water pollution has become a primary environmental issue in recent times by threatening ecosystems, human health, and also the economic development. This problem is mainly due to human activities, but it can be reduced through proper and effective solutions and responsible behavior. This essay will discuss the same. 

One major reason for water pollution is industrial waste. Most factories discharge untreated or poorly treated chemicals into rivers and oceans directly and contaminate water sources. Another important cause for the pollution is agricultural runoff. An excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides gets washed into lakes and streams during rainfall, leading to toxic water and also the destruction of aquatic life. Adding on, domestic sewage and plastic waste contribute highly to pollution, especially in the urban areas where waste management systems are inadequate.

In order to prevent water pollution, many measures can be taken. Firstly, governments must enforce stricter environmental regulations and make sure that industries treat wastewater before releasing it into all the natural water bodies. Secondly, sustainable farming practices should be encouraged. Practices such as reducing chemical use and adopting organic alternatives. Thirdly, improving sewage treatment facilities and waste management systems can highly reduce household pollution. Finally, public awareness campaigns are a must as they can educate people about the importance of conserving water and properly disposing of waste.

To conclude, water pollution is largely caused by industrial, agricultural, and even domestic activities. However, through stronger laws, sustainable initiatives, and increased public awareness, this problem can be effectively prevented, ensuring cleaner water for our future generations.

Band 9 Sample Answer - Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades

Environmental pollution is one of the most perilous issues of the 21st century. As the human race progresses and there are remarkable developments in nearly all spheres of human life, dire consequences are the outcome of such advancements. One of the significant hazards that we face in this day and age is the fouling of water. Although there are numerous causes of water contamination, this predicament can be corrected with proper measures. In this essay, I will explore some of the sources of water pollution and suggest possible solutions to tackle the situation.

Today, the condition of water adulteration has reached such an extent that a considerable portion of the world population is suffering from the lack of fresh drinking water. There are also cases of deaths due to the deficiency of clean water in various underprivileged nations. The prime origins of infected water are factories and industrial undertakings. The discharge of hazardous contaminants into large water bodies taints the quality of the resource for everyone. Secondly, the unrestrained disposal of garbage and waste materials into rivers, lakes and the sea is also a chief source of water degradation. Further, an accident such as oil spills in the water bodies makes its own contribution to this problem. Additionally, fertilizers and similar chemicals that are used to protect crops and plants or increase the yield sink in the soil to contaminate the groundwater level, which is later used for various purposes.

Nevertheless, such appalling circumstances can be mitigated by the efforts of the government and the general public. Stringent laws must be created and implemented to curb the soiling of water. Individuals who are caught discarding the trash into any water body must be heavily fined. Moreover, corporations and industrial manufacturers must be held accountable for their methods of disposal of toxic waste. Excessive use of chemicals in the fields should also be reduced and natural fertilizers should be taken up.

Finally, it is true that the damage that humanity has already done to the environment, especially to our natural water resources, is irreversible to a certain extent. However, it is our responsibility to take immediate action to prevent further deterioration.

Vocabulary to Answer the “Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades” IELTS Essay 

• Perilous

Meaning: full of danger or risk.
Eg: The perilous nature of the sea never bothered great explorers.

• Spheres

Meaning: an area of activity, interest, or expertise; a section of society or an aspect of life distinguished and unified by a particular characteristic.
Eg: There are hurdles in all spheres of life.

• Dire

Meaning: extremely serious or urgent.
Eg: He was in dire need of money.

• Hazards

Meaning: a danger or risk.
Eg: The hazards of electrical cables must be taken seriously.

• Fouling

Meaning: make foul or dirty; pollute.
Eg: The tourists enjoyed fouling the streets.

• Discharge

Meaning: the action of discharging a liquid, gas, or other substance.
Eg: The discharge of carbon dioxide from the human body is natural.

• Unrestrained

Meaning: not restrained or restricted.
Eg: The unrestrained flow of illegal imports was concerning.

• Mitigated

Meaning: make (something bad) less severe, serious, or painful.
Eg: The ointment mitigated the pain to a bearable extent.

• Curb

Meaning: a check or restraint on something.
Eg: He needs to curb such behaviour or else he might lose his membership.

• Impede

Meaning: delay or prevent (someone or something) by obstructing them; hinder.
Eg: They desperately tried to impede his progress.

In this essay, we have explored a sample answer on the topic, ‘Water Pollution Has Been an Increasing Problem Over the Last Few Decades’ highlighting the causes and potential solutions. Along with these answers, we have also introduced useful vocabulary that will help in expressing ideas more effectively in your IELTS writing. 

By understanding the key factors, implementing the right solutions, and using appropriate vocabulary, you can improve your IELTS writing skills and tackle similar topics with confidence!