IETLS Writing Task 2 Sample - Packaging Waste

Some people feel that manufacturers and supermarkets have the responsibility to reduce the amount of packaging of goods. Others argue that customers should avoid buying goods with a lot of packaging. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 

The excessive use of packaging has raised environmental concerns, leading to debates about who should take responsibility for reducing it. Some argue that manufacturers and supermarkets should limit packaging, while others believe that consumers should make more sustainable choices. This essay will discuss both views before presenting my own opinion.

On one hand, manufacturers and supermarkets play a crucial role in reducing packaging waste. As the primary producers and distributors of goods, they control how products are packaged and can adopt eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable materials or minimal packaging. Additionally, implementing sustainable packaging policies would reduce plastic waste and carbon emissions, benefiting the environment on a large scale. Since companies influence consumer behavior, they should take the lead in promoting environmentally responsible practices.

On the other hand, consumers also have a significant role in addressing this issue. By making conscious purchasing decisions, individuals can pressure businesses to adopt greener practices. If customers actively avoid products with excessive packaging, manufacturers will be forced to adapt to market demand. Moreover, consumers can reduce waste by bringing reusable bags, containers, and shopping at stores that promote zero-waste initiatives.

In my opinion, both businesses and consumers share the responsibility for reducing packaging waste. While manufacturers must implement sustainable production methods, customers should make informed choices that support environmentally friendly alternatives. A collaborative effort between businesses, governments, and individuals is necessary to achieve long-term sustainability.

Glossary

1. Excessive use – sự sử dụng quá mức

2. Environmental concerns – mối quan ngại về môi trường

3. Sustainable choices – lựa chọn bền vững

4. Eco-friendly alternatives – giải pháp thân thiện với môi trường

5. Biodegradable materials – vật liệu phân hủy sinh học

6. Sustainable packaging policies – chính sách đóng gói bền vững

7. Plastic waste – rác thải nhựa

8. Carbon emissions – khí thải carbon

9. Environmentally responsible practices – thực hành có trách nhiệm với môi trường

10. Conscious purchasing decisions – quyết định mua sắm có ý thức

11. Zero-waste initiatives – sáng kiến không rác thải

12. Sustainable production methods – phương pháp sản xuất bền vững