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IELTS vocabulary

IELTS Vocabulary for the Environment

Environmental topics appear regularly in Task 2 and Speaking Part 3. This word list covers problems, causes and solutions in clear, natural English.

Problems

Word or phraseMeaningExample
climate changelong-term change in global weather patternsClimate change is making droughts more frequent.
greenhouse gasesgases that trap heat in the atmosphereBurning fossil fuels increases greenhouse gases.
deforestationthe cutting down of forestsDeforestation destroys the habitat of many species.
air pollutionharmful substances in the airAir pollution is a major health risk in big cities.
endangered speciesanimals or plants at risk of extinctionPoaching has pushed several endangered species to the edge.
water scarcitya shortage of fresh waterWater scarcity affects farming in dry regions.

Causes and effects

Word or phraseMeaningExample
fossil fuelscoal, oil and gasDependence on fossil fuels increases emissions.
industrial wastewaste produced by factoriesIndustrial waste has polluted several rivers.
carbon footprintthe amount of carbon dioxide you produceFlying frequently increases your carbon footprint.
habitat lossthe destruction of places where wildlife livesHabitat loss is the main threat to biodiversity.
rising sea levelsthe increase in the height of oceansRising sea levels threaten coastal cities.
extreme weathervery unusual and harsh weatherExtreme weather causes damage to crops and homes.

Solutions

Word or phraseMeaningExample
renewable energypower from sources that do not run outInvestment in renewable energy can cut emissions.
recycling schemea programme to reuse materialsA recycling scheme reduces the amount of waste in landfills.
public transportbuses, trains and metros for everyoneImproving public transport reduces traffic and pollution.
sustainable developmentgrowth that does not harm the futureSustainable development balances the economy and nature.
conservationprotection of nature and resourcesConservation projects have helped some species recover.
raise awarenessmake people more informed about an issueSchools can raise awareness through practical projects.

How to use these words well

  • Link problems to solutions in the same essay.
  • Use “contribute to”, “lead to” and “result in” for cause and effect.
  • Avoid exaggeration: say “may lead to”, not “will destroy”.

Study guides

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