You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In many countries, plastic containers have become more common than ever before, and are used by many food and drink companies.
Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.
You should write at least 250 words.
Get your Detailed Essay Feedback from an IELTS Examiner

Get our downloadable eBooks, learn the details how to write a high band essay
IELTS Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay
It is often argued that a plethora of worldwide food and beverage firms have been increasingly using plastic in various stages of their production and distribution. While this is blamed for releasing toxic components in the environment, I strongly believe that the benefits the plastic materials are offering in terms of cheaper prices and delivery comforts are convincingly outweighing the associated drawbacks.
On one hand, our reckless plastic usage is the root cause of the environmental degradation, which is resulting in animal extinction, because we are constantly introducing this non-biodegradable material which is contaminating our air and soil. This pollution is interfering with the metabolism of animals, specially the large-bodied animals and rare species are more prone to this scenario, and eventually they are falling into a vicious cycle of annihilation. A study conducted by the Ministry of Environment in Lebanon has revealed that more than 20% of the asthma, endocrine disruption and other animal diseases diagnosed in 2020 were directly linked to dangerous chemicals released from burned plastic in the air.
On the other hand, regardless of the environmental downside, there are some incredible benefits of using this amazing material as it makes our life easier with cheaper product and faster packaging. Resorting to plastic, a low-cost input, companies lower their production cost which has a knock-on effect on overall retail price, making our money more worthy. In addition, when it comes to packaging and handling the products, plastic is simply nonparallel to anything. Its malleable character allows enterprises to use it in their own discretion whether it is of a packaging or a delivery purpose. For instance, recently in the quarantine period of 2020-2021, both buyers and sellers needed fast and safe handling of food and other emergency items, which would have been almost impossible without the involvement of plastic.
In conclusion, to some extent, plastic might hamper the overall environment, yet it is very essential for both consumers and producers’ points of views. Therefore, I firmly believe that the advantages of this material will forever be more rewarding than its disadvantages.
Get your Detailed Essay Feedback from an IELTS Examiner
Get our downloadable eBooks, learn the details how to write a high band essay