Writing Task
In some cities, parks and open spaces are being changed into community gardens where local residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Task Analysis
This is an “Advantages or Disadvantages” type question, and it’s straightforward to make a right repsonse.
One point I want to address specifically here is that generally, when we talk about public vs. private benefits, it’s easier to vote for the public good in terms of arguments. For today’s topic, turning public spaces into private ones (like community gardens) could impact everyone negatively in the long run, even if it’s good for some individuals in the short term. Of course, if you’re really familiar with the opposite, you could argue for the individual benefits. But for this essay, we’re going to choose the easy way – supporting public spaces, which means the disadvantages would outweigh the advantages.
Writing Sample
The conversion of urban parks into community gardens has become a contentious issue. While this idea may offer some benefits, I believe the disadvantages outweigh the advantages.
One major disadvantage is that these community gardens take away public green spaces that are meant for everyone. Parks are essential for providing areas where people can relax, exercise, and enjoy nature. When these spaces are turned into private gardens, it definitely limits the amount of open areas available for the public. Over time, this could lead to a shortage of spaces where people can simply enjoy leisure time, which is important for mental and physical well-being.
Another concern is the potential negative impact on the environment. To help fruits and vegetables grow, people often use fertilizers and pesticides. Though these may improve crop yields, they can also harm the surrounding environment, including nearby plants and wildlife. The use of chemicals in these gardens could lead to soil degradation or water contamination, which poses long-term risks to the ecosystem.
Admittedly, community gardens can benefit low-income families by providing fresh produce. However, there are better ways to address food insecurity without sacrificing valuable public spaces. Instead of converting urban parks into gardens, the government could implement initiatives to make healthy food more affordable or offer subsidies to those in need. This would tackle the issue more effectively, without the drawbacks of losing recreational areas or causing environmental harm.
In conclusion, despite the benefits of community gardens, the loss of public spaces and the potential environmental risks outweigh the advantages, and alternative solutions should be prioritized to preserve these essential spaces for all.
