The best way to protect the environment is to use local resources, such as food or building materials rather than transporting resources from other places. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In recent years, there has been increasing attention paid to environmental protection, and one suggestion that has gained traction is the use of local resources, such as food and building materials, rather than transporting resources from other places. I largely agree with this idea, as it can reduce environmental impact and support sustainable development. However, there are instances where importing resources may still be necessary or beneficial.

One of the primary advantages of using local resources is that it reduces carbon emissions caused by transportation. The process of transporting goods across long distances, especially by air or sea, involves significant energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. For example, when fruits or vegetables are flown from another country, the carbon footprint is much higher compared to buying locally grown produce. By sourcing food and materials locally, we can substantially reduce these emissions and lessen our environmental impact.

Furthermore, relying on local resources can promote the economic sustainability of communities. Supporting local farmers, builders, and manufacturers helps stimulate the local economy, creating jobs and strengthening the social fabric. For instance, if construction materials like wood, stone, and clay are sourced locally, it encourages the growth of small businesses and reduces the reliance on international trade, which can sometimes have negative effects on local industries. Therefore, promoting local resources not only benefits the environment but also boosts the local economy.

However, it is important to acknowledge that there are times when importing resources is still necessary. Certain materials, such as rare metals or advanced technology components, may not be readily available locally. In these cases, importing goods from other places is not only unavoidable but can also help foster innovation and economic growth. For example, the global trade in technology products allows different countries to access resources that are beyond their local capabilities, benefiting industries and driving technological progress.

In conclusion, while I agree that using local resources is a highly effective way to protect the environment and support local economies, it is essential to recognize that some resources are not available locally. A balanced approach, where local resources are prioritized but imports are still used when necessary, would be the most practical solution for sustainable environmental protection.

Essay Structure Analysis & Key Points

Introduction

Writing Strategy: The introduction should briefly introduce the topic and clearly present the writer's stance. It sets the tone for the essay and outlines the argument that will be discussed.

Key Points:

First sentence: Introduces the topic of environmental protection and hints at the idea of using local resources. It establishes the context for the discussion.

Second sentence: Clearly states the writer’s position, agreeing with the idea of using local resources but acknowledging that there are exceptions. This creates a balanced approach for the essay.

Body Paragraph 1

Writing Strategy: The first body paragraph discusses the environmental benefits of using local resources, particularly in terms of reducing carbon emissions. It presents a clear reason for supporting the use of local resources and uses a specific example to illustrate this.

Key Points:

First sentence: States the main argument — using local resources reduces carbon emissions.

Second sentence: Explains the environmental impact of transporting goods over long distances, particularly by air and sea.

Third sentence: Provides a specific example of how transportation increases carbon footprint (e.g., flying produce internationally).

Fourth sentence: Concludes that sourcing locally helps reduce emissions and environmental impact.

Body Paragraph 2

Writing Strategy: The second body paragraph explores the economic benefits of using local resources, particularly the positive effect it has on local communities and businesses.

Key Points:

First sentence: Introduces the economic argument, stating that using local resources promotes economic sustainability.

Second sentence: Explains how supporting local businesses stimulates the local economy and creates jobs.

Third sentence: Uses an example of sourcing local building materials to illustrate how it strengthens local industries and reduces dependency on international trade.

Fourth sentence: Summarizes that using local resources not only helps the environment but also boosts the economy.

Body Paragraph 3

Writing Strategy: This paragraph acknowledges the counterargument that in some cases, importing resources may still be necessary, especially for items not available locally.

Key Points:

First sentence: Introduces the counterargument that some resources must be imported, such as rare materials or advanced technologies.

Second sentence: Lists examples of resources that may need to be imported for technological or industrial development.

Third sentence: Argues that importing these goods fosters innovation and helps countries progress technologically.

Fourth sentence: Concludes that importing certain resources is not only inevitable but beneficial for global growth.

Conclusion

Writing Strategy: The conclusion restates the main points, reaffirms the writer's stance, and offers a balanced solution to the problem. It highlights the importance of prioritizing local resources while recognizing that some imports are still necessary.

Key Points:

First sentence: Summarizes the benefits of using local resources for both environmental and economic reasons.

Second sentence: Reiterates that certain resources must still be imported when necessary, suggesting a balanced approach.

Third sentence: Offers a solution — a balanced strategy that prioritizes local resources but allows for imports when needed for sustainability.

Overall:

This essay presents a clear, well-structured argument in favor of using local resources to protect the environment while acknowledging the necessity of imports in certain cases. The balance between local and global sourcing is the key theme, and the essay demonstrates a logical progression of ideas. By providing detailed examples and considering both sides of the issue, it fulfills the IELTS writing task effectively. This essay would likely score well in the IELTS Writing section due to its clear argumentation, coherence, and detailed examples.

💡 Disclaimer: This high-scoring IELTS essay is for study reference only and aims to help candidates expand their writing ideas. It is not an official model answer. In the actual exam, please adjust the structure and word count reasonably based on your language ability and time constraints.