IELTS Writing Task

Sample Answer

Band 7+ 

18. Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement.


To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?

Sample Answer 1 


                               Concerns have been expressed about the insufficient recycling of residential waste, with some suggesting that governments should make recycling mandatory. This essay will examine the extent to which recycling laws are necessary.

                   Legislation, according to proponents of legal requirements, can effectively compel individuals and households to prioritise recycling. Governments can assure widespread participation and foster a culture of responsible waste management by mandating recycling. In addition to incentivizing the development of recycling infrastructure and facilitating the establishment of recycling programmes in communities, legal requirements can also serve as an incentive for the development of recycling infrastructure.

                   Others believe that laws alone may not be sufficient to significantly increase recycling rates. They argue that a comprehensive approach, including public awareness campaigns, education, and easy access to recycling facilities, is required to bring about a significant change in the recycling behaviour of individuals. Without addressing the root causes of low recycling rates, the imposition of laws may result in minimal compliance or even public opposition.

            Laws can play an important role in promoting recycling, but they should be part of a larger strategy. Legislation should be accompanied by educational initiatives to increase public awareness of the environmental benefits of recycling and the negative effects of improper refuse disposal. The provision of accessible recycling facilities and the implementation of practical collection systems can also encourage participation.

             Furthermore, governments and businesses should collaborate to promote sustainable practises and packaging designs that facilitate recycling. Providing incentives, such as tax breaks or grants, can encourage industries to implement environmentally friendly practises and promote the utilisation of recyclable materials.

                 In conclusion, although laws can serve as a catalyst for increasing recycling rates, they should be implemented as part of an all-encompassing strategy. Equally essential to nurturing a culture of recycling and sustainable waste management are education, awareness campaigns, a convenient infrastructure, and industry cooperation.

Important Vocabulary and Phrases

Responsible waste management: Proper handling and disposal of waste materials.

Mandatory recycling: Making recycling a legal requirement.

Widespread participation: Encouraging the involvement of a large number of individuals or households.

Recycling infrastructure: The facilities, systems, and processes involved in recycling.

Public awareness campaigns: Initiatives to educate and inform the public about the importance of recycling.

18. Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement.


To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?

Sample Answer 2 

BAND 5.5 (244 Words)

                               Many people argue that waste from homes is not recycled properly because of inadequate facilities and the lack of legislation. They believe that the practice of recycling will increase only if governments frame strict laws. In my opinion, enacting laws is not the only solution. All cities and towns should be provided with basic recycling facilities. 

                           To begin with, a great number of people are aware of recycling, but they can not do it because of the dearth of facilities. People dump all their waste on the streets and in landfills. As a result, garbage is piling up in many cities. The garbage gives rise to fleas and mosquitoes, and they may spread harmful diseases. Thus, it affects public health. Moreover, the dumping of waste in an open area may affect the environment. The quality of the air is reduced, and people may suffer from long-term problems. 

                             Governments should enact strict laws because some people may not practice recycling unless they are bound by punishment and fines. Furthermore, governments should provide recycling facilities in all areas so that people do not have any reason to dump waste openly. In addition to this, governments should provide subsidies for biogas plants. This might encourage people to establish biogas plants in their homes, especially in rural areas. Hence, this is the best way to recycle waste.

                               In conclusion, framing laws are not sufficient. The government should also provide basic facilities so that people can dump waste properly.

 244 Words