Who should protect the environment: individuals or governments?: IELTS Writing Task 2 sample essay

Environmental problems such as pollution and climate change affect everyone, but opinions differ on who should act. Some believe the responsibility lies with individuals, while others emphasise governments. In my view, both are necessary, though governments must take the lead.

Supporters of individual responsibility point out that environmental damage is the sum of millions of daily decisions. When people recycle, save electricity, use public transport and avoid wasting food, the combined effect is considerable. Consumers who choose sustainable products also push companies to produce them, because businesses respond to demand. Personal action can also set an example for children and neighbours.

However, individuals have limited power. A resident cannot build a wind farm or force a factory to reduce emissions. Governments, by contrast, can pass laws on pollution, tax carbon-heavy industries and invest in renewable energy and efficient public transport. These measures change behaviour on a national scale. For example, charging for plastic bags in many countries led to a dramatic drop in their use within months. Businesses should not be forgotten either, since large companies control supply chains and packaging, and when governments require transparent reporting of emissions, firms compete to improve their image, which spreads cleaner practices much faster than appeals to individual conscience.

Government policy also makes green choices easier: people are more likely to cycle if safe cycle lanes exist, and to recycle if collection is convenient.

In conclusion, individual actions matter and can inspire others, but the scale of environmental problems demands strong laws and investment from governments. Real progress will happen only when both work together.