IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay: Consumerism

In today’s society, there is a growing trend of discarding old things in favor of the latest fashion and technology. While this may have some economic advantages, it also comes with many drawbacks. This essay will discuss the disadvantages of a throwaway society and evaluate whether they outweigh the economic benefits.

On the one hand, a throwaway society does have some economic advantages. By constantly purchasing new products, consumers create demand, which, in turn, drives economic growth. Additionally, businesses profit from this behavior as they can charge premium prices for the latest and greatest products. Moreover, constantly upgrading technology and fashion also generates new jobs in the manufacturing and retail sectors.

However, the negative impact of a throwaway society cannot be ignored. Firstly, it creates a significant amount of waste, which is not environmentally sustainable. Electronic products, in particular, are often thrown away after just a few years, despite still functioning, leading to e-waste pollution. Additionally, the manufacturing of new products requires natural resources, and the disposal of old products can also lead to toxic waste.

Moreover, constantly upgrading to the latest fashion and technology can also have an impact on personal finances. Individuals may find themselves spending more than they can afford, putting themselves in debt to keep up with the latest trends. This can also lead to a lack of satisfaction as individuals may find themselves in a never-ending cycle of acquiring new possessions without finding true happiness.

In conclusion, while a throwaway society does have some economic benefits, the negative impacts on the environment and personal finances outweigh the positives. It is essential to find a balance between economic growth and sustainable consumption habits. Governments and businesses should take steps to promote sustainable production and consumption to reduce waste and ensure the long-term health of our planet. Individuals should also consider the true cost of their purchases and make conscious choices to consume sustainably.

Vocabulary words:

  1. Discarding – getting rid of something that is no longer useful or needed
  2. Trend – a general direction in which something is developing or changing
  3. Drawbacks – disadvantages or negative aspects of something
  4. Purchasing – buying something
  5. Demand – the desire or need for a particular product or service
  6. Drives – causes or influences something to happen or develop
  7. Upgrading – improving or replacing something to a better version
  8. Sectors – areas of business or industry
  9. Waste – material that is not wanted and is thrown away
  10. Sustainable – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
  11. Environmentally – in relation to the natural world and the impact of human activity on its condition
  12. Toxic – poisonous or harmful
  13. Personal finances – the management of an individual’s money
  14. Acquiring – obtaining or gaining something
  15. True cost – the actual cost of something including the negative impacts it may have

Linkers:

  1. While – shows contrast or opposition between two things
  2. Additionally – introduces an extra point or reason
  3. Moreover – introduces another point that supports the previous point
  4. Firstly – shows that there is more than one point to make and introduces the first one
  5. Additionally – introduces a second point
  6. Moreover – introduces a third point
  7. In conclusion – introduces the final point and summary of the essay.

Explanation: The vocabulary words refer to the key terms and phrases used in the essay, while the linkers are the words that connect and show the relationship between different points and ideas. By using these words and phrases, the essay becomes cohesive and coherent, making it easier for the reader to understand the main argument and the various points being made.

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