The environment has become a major focus in recent years, including a wide range of aspects such as climate change, biodiversity, pollution management, waste management and legislation. Each of these domains includes specific vocabulary that can be important for building strong and coherent arguments. However, there’s no need to worry—this vocabulary is not overwhelming in number. By mastering a limited range of terms, you’ll be well-equipped to handle a variety of environmental essays. Below, I’ll list some commonly used words and collocations for you to learn and practice. Enjoy!
01 / Climate Change
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Climate change | Long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns | Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing humanity today. (The Guardian) |
| Climate crisis | A critical situation resulting from climate change | The climate crisis requires immediate and sustained action. (The New York Times) |
| Global warming | Increase in Earth’s average surface temperature | Global warming is accelerating due to human activities. (BBC News) |
| Greenhouse effect | Warming that results when the atmosphere traps heat | The greenhouse effect is crucial for maintaining Earth's temperature. (The New York Times) |
| Emission reduction | Decreasing the amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere | Emission reduction targets are vital for combating climate change. (CNN) |
02 / Energy
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Renewable energy | Energy from sources that are naturally replenished | Renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, are essential for a sustainable future. (Forbes) |
| Solar energy | Energy harnessed from the sun | Solar energy is becoming increasingly affordable and efficient. (Bloomberg) |
| Wind energy | Power generated from wind through turbines | Investments in wind energy are on the rise globally. (The Guardian) |
| Clean energy | Energy that is produced with minimal environmental impact | Transitioning to clean energy is critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (Harvard Business Review) |
| Energy efficiency | Using less energy to provide the same service | Improving energy efficiency can lead to significant cost savings. (CNN) |
03 / Pollution
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Air pollution | Contamination of the air by harmful substances | Air pollution is linked to numerous health issues. (The New York Times) |
| Water pollution | Contamination of water bodies | Water pollution affects ecosystems and human health. (The Guardian) |
| Noise pollution | Unwanted or harmful levels of noise | Noise pollution is often overlooked but can have serious effects on health. (Harvard Business Review) |
| Environmental pollution | Overall pollution affecting the environment | Addressing environmental pollution requires collaborative efforts. (CNN) |
| Reduce pollution | Efforts to decrease various types of pollution | Initiatives to reduce pollution are essential for sustainable urban living. (Forbes) |
04 / Conservation
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife conservation | Protection of wildlife and their habitats | Wildlife conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining biodiversity. (The Guardian) |
| Natural resources | Materials and components found in the environment | Sustainable management of natural resources is essential for future generations. (Forbes) |
| Habitat protection | Efforts to conserve natural environments for species | Habitat protection is vital for preventing species extinction. (BBC News) |
| Biodiversity | The variety of life in the world or a particular habitat | Biodiversity loss threatens food security and ecosystem health. (The Economist) |
05 / Sustainability
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainable development | Development that meets current needs without compromising future generations | Sustainable development aims to balance economic growth with environmental protection. (The Guardian) |
| Sustainable practices | Methods that do not deplete resources or harm the environment | Implementing sustainable practices in agriculture can improve yields without damaging ecosystems. (Bloomberg) |
| Eco-friendly | Products or practices that are not harmful to the environment | Using eco-friendly materials can help reduce waste. (CNN) |
| Green technology | Technologies that aim to minimize environmental impact | Investing in green technology is crucial for a sustainable future. (The Guardian) |
| Environmentally friendly | Practices or products that are considerate of the environment | Choosing environmentally friendly options can significantly reduce your ecological footprint. (Forbes) |
06 / Waste Management
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Waste management | The process of managing waste materials to reduce their impact on the environment. | Effective waste management is essential for a sustainable future. (Environmental Science Journal) |
| Household waste | Waste generated from home activities, including food scraps, packaging, and old items. | Reducing household waste can significantly lower your carbon footprint. (Green Living Magazine) |
| Medical waste | Waste produced in healthcare settings, which can pose health risks if not handled properly. | Proper disposal of medical waste is crucial for public health. (Health & Safety Journal) |
| Industrial waste | Waste generated from industrial activities, often requiring special disposal methods. | Regulations on industrial waste help minimize environmental impact. (Industry Today) |
| Landfill | A designated area for the disposal of waste, which can lead to environmental issues if not managed correctly. | Many cities are running out of space for new landfills. (Waste Management World) |
| Recycling | The process of converting waste materials into reusable materials. | Recycling can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. (Sustainable Practices Magazine) |
| Composting | The natural process of recycling organic matter, such as food scraps, into a valuable fertilizer. | Composting is an effective way to reduce household waste. (Organic Gardening Magazine) |
| Waste reduction | Practices aimed at minimizing waste generation at the source. | Waste reduction strategies are key to achieving sustainability goals. (Environmental Protection Agency) |
| Disposable items | Products designed for single-use, which contribute significantly to waste accumulation. | Minimizing the use of disposable items can help reduce environmental impact. (Eco-Friendly Living) |
07 / Ecosystems
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Ecosystem balance | A state of equilibrium within an ecosystem | Maintaining ecosystem balance is crucial for biodiversity. (The Guardian) |
| Endangered species | Species at risk of extinction | Conservation efforts are essential for protecting endangered species. (BBC News) |
| Habitat loss | The destruction or alteration of natural habitats | Habitat loss is a major driver of biodiversity decline. (The New York Times) |
| Deforestation | The clearing of trees for land development | Deforestation contributes significantly to climate change. (Harvard Business Review) |
| Reforestation | The process of replanting trees in deforested areas | Reforestation can help restore damaged ecosystems. (CNN) |
08 / Environmental Issues
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Land degradation | The decline in land quality caused by human activities | Land degradation affects agricultural productivity and food security. (The Guardian) |
| Desertification | The process of land becoming increasingly arid | Desertification is a significant threat to biodiversity and human livelihoods. (BBC News) |
| Soil erosion | The removal of the topsoil layer due to wind or water | Soil erosion can lead to reduced agricultural yields. (Forbes) |
| Environmental degradation | The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources | Environmental degradation impacts ecosystems and human health. (CNN) |
09 / Legislation and Policy
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental regulations | Rules aimed at protecting the environment | Compliance with environmental regulations is essential for corporations. (The Economist) |
| Emission standards | Legal limits on the amount of pollutants that can be emitted | Tighter emission standards are necessary for cleaner air. (Harvard Business Review) |
| Green policies | Policies promoting environmental sustainability | Implementing green policies can help combat climate change. (CNN) |
| Conservation laws | Legal frameworks aimed at protecting natural resources | Effective conservation laws are vital for preserving biodiversity. (Bloomberg) |
| International environmental agreements | Treaties between countries to address global environmental issues | International environmental agreements play a crucial role in tackling climate change. (The Guardian) |
10 / Carbon
| Collocation | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon neutrality | Achieving a balance between emitted and absorbed carbon | Striving for carbon neutrality is essential for mitigating climate change. (The Guardian) |
| Carbon footprint | Total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual or organization | Reducing your carbon footprint is essential for environmental sustainability. (Forbes) |
Refer to https://ieltswriting.org/ielts-14-test-2-writing-task-2-with-sample-answer-academic/ for an examiner’s answer to an environmental writing task.