Plastic Shopping Bags Are the Main Type of Rubbish, They Cause Water and Land Pollution - IELTS Essay

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Model Essay 1

In many nations, plastic bags have become synonymous with pollution, cluttering landscapes and waterways, thus posing a significant environmental threat. Advocating for their prohibition, I strongly concur that eliminating these pollutants is a crucial step towards environmental sustainability. This essay will explore the detrimental effects of plastic bags on ecosystems and the benefits of alternative solutions.

Firstly, plastic bags significantly contribute to water and land pollution due to their non-biodegradable nature, enduring in the environment for centuries and posing severe risks to wildlife. Marine animals, such as turtles, frequently mistake these floating bags for food, such as jellyfish, leading to lethal outcomes upon ingestion. Similarly, birds can become entangled in these materials, restricting their movement and ability to feed. On terrestrial grounds, plastic bags obstruct drainage systems, leading to increased flooding risks and transforming urban areas into breeding zones for harmful disease vectors like mosquitoes. This exacerbates public health issues and damages ecosystems. The unsightly accumulation of plastic bags in natural and urban landscapes serves as a stark reminder of our consumption patterns, emphasizing the urgent need for regulatory intervention to mitigate their usage.

Secondly, imposing bans on plastic bags propels the shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives, nurturing a societal commitment to environmental preservation. The enactment of such bans or levies across various nations has catalyzed a significant increase in the utilization of reusable fabric totes, paper bags, and biodegradable alternatives, substantially curtailing waste generation. This transformation is not only pivotal in waste reduction but also in elevating consumer awareness and participation in environmental conservation efforts. It symbolizes a broader societal shift towards sustainable living, encouraging individuals to reconsider their daily choices and their impacts on the environment. Moreover, the transition underscores a global commitment to safeguarding natural resources and minimizing carbon emissions, aligning with international objectives to address climate change and promote a more sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, the ban on plastic shopping bags is not only imperative for mitigating pollution but also for steering societies towards sustainable practices. By acknowledging the environmental havoc wrought by these bags and embracing eco-friendly substitutes, we can significantly lessen our ecological impact.

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Model Essay 2

The ubiquity of plastic shopping bags as a predominant form of waste has escalated environmental concerns, polluting water bodies and land. This essay staunchly advocates for their prohibition, focusing on environmental preservation and the promotion of sustainable alternatives.

Firstly, the environmental degradation caused by plastic bags is a pressing global issue. These non-biodegradable materials not only linger in ecosystems for centuries but also wreak havoc on wildlife habitats and the broader ecological balance. When marine creatures ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food, the results are often fatal, leading to a significant decrease in biodiversity. The production process of these bags further compounds the problem by consuming vast amounts of fossil fuels, thereby accelerating the pace of climate change. A shift towards eco-friendly alternatives, such as cloth or paper bags, presents a viable solution. Research indicates that adopting a single reusable bag can eliminate the need for hundreds of plastic ones, thus substantially curbing pollution and fostering a healthier planet.

Secondly, beyond the environmental toll, the widespread use of plastic bags has significant economic repercussions. The costs associated with cleaning up plastic bag waste place a substantial financial burden on local governments and communities, diverting resources from other critical public services. This economic strain underscores the need for a systemic shift towards sustainable bag production. Such a move not only promises to reduce the environmental footprint but also stimulates job creation within the burgeoning green sector, driving economic growth and innovation. The success story of Rwanda, which has witnessed remarkable improvements in urban cleanliness and environmental integrity following a plastic bag ban, serves as a compelling example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved. This transition not only fosters a cleaner environment but also propels nations towards a more sustainable and economically viable future.

In conclusion, the ban on plastic shopping bags is not only a critical step towards environmental sustainability but also a catalyst for economic benefits. By embracing alternatives, we can protect our planet for future generations while promoting sustainable development.

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