IELTS Writing Task 2: Cars Damaging the Environment
The manufacturing and use of cars damages the environment but their popularity is increasing.
Why is this?
How could this be controlled?
Sample Answer :
Even though both production and car use increase pollution, the auto industry continues to expand. This is because developing nations now have greater disposable income and governments can limit the resultant environmental damage through regulation.
The main cause underlying an increasing numbers of cars is growth in developing countries. Ownership in developed countries peaked decades ago and many European nations in particular are now adopting greener modes of transport. However, in developing nations, cars are seen as a status symbol that boost self-esteem and serve a practical travel purpose. Coupled with increased per capita GDP, the boom in car ownership is unsurprising. For example, a growing middle class in Vietnam has driven up purchases of foreign automobiles dramatically over the last decade. The demand is so great that last year a Vietnamese company introduced the first domestically produced car. This same trend is replicated around the world in developing countries.
The most impactful response is from the government. Consumers will continue to buy cars but the government has control over a range of possible environmental protective measures. For example, there could be stricter laws related to emission standards. This would cut down on the average amount of pollution from individual cars and collectively make a huge difference. Another measure would be to discourage car ownership by taxing cars heavily and improving the quality of public transportation. A good example of this would also be in Vietnam where there is a 200% tax on cars and the government is building the world’s most expensive subway system in Ho Chi Minh City. Individuals are unlikely to change their behaviour en masse so it falls to policymakers to dissuade citizens through proactive reforms and policies.
In conclusion, more cars can be explained by rising incomes globally and pragmatic solutions come from government regulation. If taken seriously, the heavy environmental toll of cars can be curbed.
