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Question
“What man calls civilization always results in deserts. Man is never on the square he uses up the fat and greenery of the earth. Each generation wastes a little more of the future with greed and lust for riches”- Don Marquis
With our modern awareness of ecology are we likely to make sufficient progress in conservation, or are we still in danger of damaging the earth beyond repair? Write a discursive essay discussing the issue being raised.
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Solution
The quote by Don Marquis raises a profound question about the impact of human civilization on the environment. As we stand at a critical juncture in the history of our planet, with growing awareness of ecology and environmental issues, it is crucial to examine whether we are making sufficient progress in conservation or if we are still in danger of damaging the Earth beyond repair.
The current state of the environment gives us both reasons for hope and causes for concern. On one hand, there has been significant progress in raising awareness about ecological issues. Environmental organizations, governments, and individuals around the world have been working diligently to protect and conserve natural resources, promote sustainable practices, and combat pollution. International agreements such as the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming, demonstrate a collective commitment to address pressing environmental challenges. Technological advancements have also provided us with innovative solutions for cleaner energy, more efficient resource utilization, and improved waste management.
However, despite these positive efforts, the Earth continues to face severe threats. Climate change, deforestation, habitat destruction, overfishing, and pollution remain persistent problems. Rapid industrialization, population growth, and unsustainable consumption patterns place enormous strain on ecosystems and biodiversity. The exploitation of natural resources for short-term gains often disregards the long-term consequences, leading to the depletion of vital resources, soil degradation, and the loss of biodiversity.
Sustainable development seeks to harmonize economic progress with ecological stewardship. It requires a shift in our collective mindset, emphasizing the need for responsible resource management, renewable energy sources, reduced waste generation, and the protection of natural habitats. Education and awareness play a critical role in this transformation. Empowering individuals with knowledge about the consequences of their actions on the environment can drive meaningful change. Schools, media, and communities must all contribute to fostering an environmentally conscious society. Furthermore, policies that incentivize environmentally friendly practices, such as tax incentives for renewable energy adoption or stringent regulations on pollution, can drive industries towards sustainable choices.
Notes
- Content – 2 marks
- Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)
- Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy)
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