Cue Card

Describe an environmental law your country should have

You should say:

• What the law should be
• Why people should follow the law
• Whether the law would be popular
• And explain how you would feel about this law.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What kind of environmental laws does your country already have?
2. What kind of rules do schools in your country have?
3. Will there ever be a law that is universally accepted?
4. How has technology affected the laws in your country?

Sample Cue Card Answer

As I'm sure we're all aware, the US is one of the world's largest producers of plastic waste, with millions of tons of plastic ending up in our oceans and landfills every year. That's why I believe the US needs a comprehensive Extended Producer Responsibility law, or EPR for short. Essentially, this law would require companies to take full responsibility for the waste generated by their products, from production to disposal. This means they'd be incentivized to design more sustainable packaging, increase recycling rates, and even develop biodegradable materials. It's a simple yet powerful concept that's already being implemented in countries like Germany and Japan with remarkable success.

Imagine if companies like Coca-Cola and Amazon were held accountable for the plastic waste generated by their products. They'd have to rethink their packaging strategies, invest in recycling infrastructure, and maybe even explore new materials that can replace plastic altogether. This law would not only reduce waste but also create jobs and stimulate innovation in the recycling industry. It's a win-win for both the environment and the economy.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, 'But wouldn't this law just lead to higher costs for consumers?' And to that, I'd say, not necessarily. In fact, studies have shown that EPR laws can actually lead to cost savings in the long run by reducing waste management costs and increasing recycling rates. Plus, think about the long-term benefits of preserving our planet's natural resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. It's a small price to pay for a healthier planet, don't you think?

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Extended Producer Responsibility

A policy approach that requires companies to take responsibility for the waste generated by their products

Germany's EPR law has led to a significant increase in recycling rates

Companies like H&M are already implementing EPR strategies to reduce waste

Sample Part 3 Answers

What kind of environmental laws does your country already have? In the United States, we have a robust framework of environmental laws that aim to protect our air, water, and land. One of the most significant laws is the Clean Air Act, which sets standards for air quality and regulates emissions from vehicles and industrial sources. Another crucial law is the Clean Water Act, which ensures that our waterways are safe for human consumption and recreation. We also have the Endangered Species Act, which protects threatened and endangered species and their habitats. Additionally, the National Environmental Policy Act requires federal agencies to consider the environmental impacts of their actions. These laws have been instrumental in improving our environmental quality, but there's still much work to be done to address the climate crisis and other pressing environmental issues.

What kind of rules do schools in your country have? In the US, schools have rules in place to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainability. For example, many schools have recycling programs that encourage students to recycle paper, plastic, and glass. Some schools also have energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, which reduce energy consumption. Furthermore, many schools incorporate environmental education into their curricula, teaching students about the importance of conservation, climate change, and sustainability. Some schools even have gardens or green roofs, which provide hands-on learning experiences for students. These rules and initiatives not only scratch the surface of what's needed, but they're a great start in shaping the next generation of environmental stewards.

Will there ever be a law that is universally accepted? Achieving universal acceptance of an environmental law is a lofty goal, but it's not impossible. Take the Paris Agreement, for instance. While not a law per se, it's an international accord that nearly every country has signed, committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. This shows that, with concerted effort and diplomacy, nations can come together to address a pressing global issue. However, the devil's in the details, and implementing such agreements can be challenging. Nevertheless, the Paris Agreement demonstrates that, with persistence and cooperation, we can make progress toward a more sustainable future. Maybe one day, we'll have a universally accepted law that protects the environment, but until then, we'll keep striving for it.

How has technology affected the laws in your country? Technology has significantly impacted environmental laws in the US, particularly in the realm of enforcement. For instance, satellite imaging and drones now help monitor deforestation, oil spills, and other environmental crimes. This technology enables authorities to respond more quickly and effectively to environmental disasters. Additionally, data analytics and artificial intelligence can help identify patterns and predict areas of high environmental risk, allowing for more targeted regulations and enforcement. Furthermore, online platforms and mobile apps make it easier for citizens to report environmental concerns and participate in the regulatory process. While technology is not a panacea for environmental issues, it's certainly a powerful tool in the fight against pollution and climate change.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

Robust framework

A strong and comprehensive system or structure

In the United States, we have a robust framework of environmental laws that aim to protect our air, water, and land.

Environmental footprint

The impact that human activities have on the environment

Schools have rules in place to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainability.

Hands-on learning experiences

Practical and interactive learning activities that allow students to learn by doing

Some schools even have gardens or green roofs, which provide hands-on learning experiences for students.

Lofty goal

An ambitious or idealistic objective

Achieving universal acceptance of an environmental law is a lofty goal, but it's not impossible.

Devil's in the details

The difficulties or challenges are in the small or specific aspects of a plan or situation

However, the devil's in the details, and implementing such agreements can be challenging.

Panacea

A solution or remedy that can solve all problems or difficulties

While technology is not a panacea for environmental issues, it's certainly a powerful tool in the fight against pollution and climate change.