Raising a sport to international levels is the responsibility of the government. How far do you agree?

While governments play a crucial role in raising a sport to international levels by providing funding and infrastructure, private organisations and grassroots initiatives are equally essential for sustainable development and success.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Sport at the international level can be promoted by grassroot organisations.
  • Background: Overview of the roles played by various stakeholders in sports development.
  • Thesis Statement: Governments are important for raising sports to international levels, but private organisations and grassroots initiatives also play key roles.

II. Supporting View 1: Government Funding and Infrastructure

III. Supporting View 2: National Policies and Regulations

IV. Supporting View 3: International Representation and Promotion

V. Opposing View 1: Role of Private Organisations

VI. Opposing View 2: Importance of Grassroots Initiatives

VII. Opposing View 3: Contribution of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Governments are important for raising sports to international levels, but private organisations, grassroots initiatives, and NGOs also play key roles.
  • Summary of Key Points: Government funding, policies, promotion versus private investment, grassroots initiatives, NGO contributions.
  • Final Thought: A collaborative approach involving government, private sectors, and grassroots movements is essential for sustainable sports development.

A nation’s right to sovereignty takes precedence over human rights. Do you agree?

Prioritising human rights over sovereignty is essential.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: A nation’s sovereignty must not overshadow the fundamental rights of individuals.
  • Background: Overview of the tension between national sovereignty and human rights.
  • Thesis Statement: While sovereignty is crucial, it should not take precedence over human rights, as human rights ensure justice and dignity for all.

II. Supporting View 1: Importance of Sovereignty for Independence

III. Supporting View 2: Sovereignty in National Security

IV. Supporting View 3: Sovereignty in Cultural Preservation

V. Opposing View 1: Human Rights as Universal Standards

VI. Opposing View 2: International Accountability

VII. Opposing View 3: Long-term Peace and Stability

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: While sovereignty is crucial, it should not take precedence over human rights, as human rights ensure justice and dignity for all.
  • Summary of Key Points: Sovereignty for independence, security, and culture versus universal human rights, international accountability, long-term stability.
  • Final Thought: Balancing sovereignty with human rights is essential for global justice and enduring peace.

The sole purpose of any multi-national company is to maximise returns to its shareholders. Do you agree?

While maximising returns to shareholders is a primary purpose of multi-national companies (MNCs), they also increasingly focus on social responsibility, sustainability, and stakeholder value.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Multi-national companies exist solely to enrich their shareholders. Why else would they be multi-national?
  • Background: Overview of the traditional role of MNCs and evolving perspectives.
  • Thesis Statement: Maximising shareholder returns is crucial for MNCs, but they also focus on social responsibility, sustainability, and stakeholder value.

II. Supporting View 1: Maximising Shareholder Returns

III. Supporting View 2: Financial Performance Focus

IV. Supporting View 3: Regulatory Compliance for Profit

V. Opposing View 1: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

VI. Opposing View 2: Stakeholder Value Focus

VII. Opposing View 3: Ethical Business Practices

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Maximising shareholder returns is crucial for MNCs, but they also focus on social responsibility, sustainability, and stakeholder value.
  • Summary of Key Points: Shareholder returns, financial performance, regulatory compliance versus CSR, stakeholder value, ethical practices.
  • Final Thought: Balancing profit with ethical and social responsibilities is essential for sustainable success in the modern business environment.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. To what extent is it justifiable for governments to adopt this approach?

While adopting desperate measures can be justified in extreme situations to ensure public safety and stability, it risks undermining democratic principles, human rights, and long-term societal trust. Ethics can be the guiding light.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: The end justifies the means. In times of crisis, government actions be justified.
  • Background: Overview of government responses to emergencies.
  • Thesis Statement: Desperate measures can be justified in extreme situations but risk undermining democratic principles, human rights, and long-term trust.

II. Supporting View 1: Ensuring Public Safety

  • Topic Sentence: Adopting desperate measures at times is justified to ensure public safety in extreme crises.
  • Example 1: New Zealand’s strict COVID-19 lockdown (2020-2021). Strict lockdown measures curbed virus spread effectively (source: BBC, 2020).
  • Example 2: Australia’s bushfire emergency response (2019-2020). Government enforced evacuations and firebreaks to protect lives (source: The Guardian, 2020). https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/jan/06/australian-bushfires-what-did-the-government-do
  • Example 3: Italy’s stringent earthquake measures (2016-2021).
    • Analysis: In extreme situations, urgent measures are necessary to protect public safety.

    III. Supporting View 2: Stabilising the Economy

    IV. Supporting View 3: Addressing National Security Threats

    V. Opposing View 1: Undermining Democratic Principles

    VI. Opposing View 2: Violating Human Rights

    VII. Opposing View 3: Eroding Public Trust

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Desperate measures can be justified in extreme situations to ensure public safety and stability, but they risk undermining democratic principles, human rights, and long-term societal trust.
    • Summary of Key Points: Public safety, economic stability, national security versus democratic principles, human rights, public trust.
    • Final Thought: Balancing immediate needs with long-term values is crucial for justifying extreme measures.

    Do you agree that it is increasingly difficult to tell right from wrong?

    It is increasingly difficult to tell right from wrong due to the complexity of modern issues, misinformation, and cultural relativism. However, ethical frameworks, education, and critical thinking still provide guidance.

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: Humans are not blind. They can clearly discern right from wrong.
    • Background: Overview of moral ambiguity in modern society.
    • Thesis Statement: It is increasingly difficult to tell right from wrong due to social complexity, misinformation, and cultural relativism, but ethical frameworks and education can offer guidance.

    II. Supporting View 1: Complexity of Modern Issues

    III. Supporting View 3: Cultural Relativism

    IV. Opposing View 1: Ethical Frameworks Provide Guidance

    • Topic Sentence: Established ethical frameworks help maintain moral clarity.
    • Example 1: Human rights laws in the EU (2017-2021) uphold moral standards. Human rights frameworks guide ethical decision-making (source: European Commission, 2020). https://ec.europa.eu/info/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights_en
    • Analysis: Ethical frameworks provide a foundation for determining right from wrong.

    V. Opposing View 2: Education and Critical Thinking

    VI. Opposing View 3: Role of Community and Dialogue

    • Topic Sentence: Community values and open dialogue support moral clarity.
    • Example 1: Community forums in Germany (2017-2021) foster ethical discussions. Forums encourage dialogue on moral issues (source: Deutsche Welle, 2019). https://www.dw.com/en/germanys-community-forums/a-51157813
    • Analysis: Community involvement and dialogue help reinforce shared moral values.

    VII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Distinguishing right from wrong is becoming more difficult due to complexity, misinformation, and cultural relativism, but ethical frameworks and education offer guidance.
    • Summary of Key Points: Complexity of modern issues, spread of misinformation, cultural relativism versus ethical frameworks, education, and community dialogue.
    • Final Thought: Navigating moral ambiguity requires a combination of ethical frameworks, critical thinking, and community engagement.

    Solitude is enjoyable and beneficial. Discuss.

    Solitude in the right combination can be enjoyable and beneficial, fostering creativity, personal growth, and mental health. However, it can also lead to loneliness, anxiety, and social disconnection if experienced excessively.

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: Solitude is a sanctuary for the mind.
    • Background: Overview of the concept of solitude and its impacts.
    • Thesis Statement: Solitude can be enjoyable and beneficial, promoting creativity, personal growth, and mental health.

    II. Supporting View 1: Solitude Fosters Creativity

    III. Supporting View 2: Solitude Promotes Personal Growth

    IV. Supporting View 3: Solitude Improves Mental Health

    V. Opposing View 1: Solitude Can Lead to Loneliness

    VI. Opposing View 2: Solitude May Increase Anxiety

    VII. Opposing View 3: Solitude Can Lead to Social Disconnection

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Solitude is generally enjoyable and beneficial, promoting creativity, personal growth, and mental health, but excessive solitude can have negative effects.
    • Summary of Key Points: Solitude fosters creativity, personal growth, mental health versus loneliness, anxiety, social disconnection.
    • Final Thought: Balancing solitude with social interaction can maximise its benefits and minimise its drawbacks.

    Can art and technology truly complement each other?

    Art and technology can truly complement each other by enhancing creativity, accessibility, and collaboration. However, there are concerns about the potential for dehumanisation, loss of traditional skills, and dependency on technology.

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: The fusion of art and technology can create a harmonious state.
    • Background: Overview of the intersection between art and technology.
    • Thesis Statement: Art and technology can complement each other, enhancing creativity, accessibility, and collaboration, but concerns about dehumanisation, loss of traditional skills, and dependency persist.

    II. Supporting View 1: Enhanced Creativity

    • Topic Sentence: Art and technology are complimentary as technology enhances creativity in art.
    • Example 1: Digital art exhibitions in Tokyo (2017-2021) using immersive technologies. TeamLab’s interactive digital installations blend art and technology (source: The Guardian, 2019).
    • Example 2: Virtual reality in European theatre productions (2018-2021). VR technology offers new ways to experience performances (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 3: AI-generated art in London galleries (2019-2021).
      • Context: Artists use AI to create innovative pieces (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Analysis: Technology provides artists with new tools and mediums, expanding creative possibilities.

    III. Supporting View 2: Increased Accessibility

    • Topic Sentence: Art and technology are symbiotic as technology increases accessibility to art.
    • Example 1: Online art platforms in India (2017-2021) expanding audience reach. Platforms like Art Fervour make art accessible to a broader audience (source: The Hindu, 2020).
    • Example 2: Virtual museum tours in Europe (2020-2021) during the pandemic. Museums offered virtual tours to keep art accessible (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 3: Augmented reality art in South Korea (2018-2021). AR apps bring public art to life for viewers (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Analysis: Technology democratizes access to art, allowing more people to engage with and appreciate it.

    IV. Supporting View 3: Facilitated Collaboration

    • Topic Sentence: Technology facilitates collaboration among artists globally.
    • Example 1: Collaborative digital art projects in Europe (2018-2021). Artists from different countries collaborate on digital platforms (source: The Guardian, 2018).
    • Example 2: Online music collaborations in Japan (2017-2021). Musicians use technology to create music together remotely (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 3: International virtual theatre festivals (2020-2021). Theatre groups use digital platforms to stage performances globally (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Analysis: Technology enables artists to work together across distances, fostering innovation and diversity in art.

    V. Opposing View 1: Risk of Dehumanisation

    • Topic Sentence: Technology in art risks dehumanising the creative process.
    • Example 1: AI-generated art in France (2019-2021) raising ethical concerns. Critics argue that AI lacks the human touch (source: The Guardian, 2020).
    • Example 2: Automated music composition in Germany (2018-2021). Some believe technology undermines the human element of music creation (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 3: Digital art replacing traditional methods in Italy (2017-2021). Concerns over loss of artisanal skills and human creativity (source: Reuters, 2018).
    • Analysis: Relying on technology may reduce the human aspect of artistic creation, affecting its emotional depth and authenticity.

    VI. Opposing View 2: Loss of Traditional Skills

    • Topic Sentence: Technology may lead to the loss of traditional art skills.
    • Example 1: Decline of hand-painted cinema posters in India (2017-2021). Digital printing has largely replaced traditional poster art (source: The Hindu, 2019).
    • Example 2: Fading traditional pottery in Japan (2018-2021). Technological advancements threaten traditional pottery techniques (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 3: Diminishing textile weaving skills in Peru (2019-2021). Machine weaving endangers traditional textile craftsmanship (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Analysis: The rise of technology can overshadow and diminish the importance of traditional artistic skills.

    VII. Opposing View 3: Dependency on Technology

    • Topic Sentence: Artists may become overly dependent on technology.
    • Example 1: Digital art tools in South Korea (2018-2021) dominating artistic creation. Over-reliance on digital tools may limit creativity (source: The Guardian, 2019).
    • Example 2: VR-based performances in the UK (2019-2021) overshadowing live theatre. Critics argue that VR cannot fully replicate the live theatre experience (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 3: AI in music production in Sweden (2017-2021) reducing human input. Dependence on AI could stifle human creativity (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Analysis: Over-dependence on technology may hinder artistic creativity and expression.

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Art and technology can complement each other, enhancing creativity, accessibility, and collaboration, but concerns about dehumanisation, loss of traditional skills, and dependency persist.
    • Summary of Key Points: Enhanced creativity, increased accessibility, facilitated collaboration versus risk of dehumanisation, loss of traditional skills, dependency on technology.
    • Final Thought: Balancing technology with traditional artistic values can foster a harmonious and innovative future in the arts.

    How true is it that people who crave danger have nothing better to do with their lives?

    While some people who crave danger may lack fulfilling alternatives, many seek thrill for personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits, challenging the notion that they have “nothing better to do.”

    While some people who crave danger may lack fulfilling alternatives, many seek thrill for personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits, challenging the notion that they have “nothing better to do.”

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: Those who crave danger are mindless and selfish.
    • Background: Overview of the reasons behind thrill-seeking behaviour.
    • Thesis Statement: Craving danger is not necessarily due to a lack of better alternatives; it can be motivated by personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits.

    II. Supporting View 1: Lack of Purpose and Alternatives

    • Topic Sentence: Some crave danger as there might not be better alternatives.
    • Example 1: Urban exploration in abandoned buildings in the UK (2019-2021). Young people explore dangerous sites due to boredom and lack of opportunities (source: The Guardian, 2019).
    • Example 2: Illegal street racing in South Africa (2018-2021) as a thrill-seeking activity.
      • Context: Participants often lack access to structured motorsport opportunities (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 3: Cliff jumping in Greece (2017-2021) among unemployed youth.
      • Context: High unemployment rates drive young people to seek thrills (source: Reuters, 2018).
    • Analysis: For some, thrill-seeking fills a void created by lack of purpose or opportunities.

    III. Supporting View 2: Personal Growth and Achievement

    • Topic Sentence: Some crave danger for thrill-seeking high. They feel that such danger is good for personal growth.
    • Example 1: Mountaineering in Nepal (2016-2021) as a personal challenge. Climbers aim to conquer Everest for personal accomplishment (source: The Guardian, 2019).
    • Example 2: Free solo climbing in Europe (2017-2021) by professional athletes. Athletes push their limits for achievement and recognition (source: BBC, 2018).
    • Example 3: Ultra-marathon running in the Sahara (2018-2021) for extreme endurance.
      • Context: Participants test their physical and mental limits (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Analysis: Personal growth and the pursuit of achievement drive many to seek dangerous activities.

    IV. Supporting View 3: Mental Health Benefits

    • Topic Sentence: Some who crave danger and thrill opine that such adventure can provide significant mental health benefits.
    • Example 1: Skydiving in New Zealand (2016-2021) as therapy for PTSD. Veterans use extreme sports to cope with trauma (source: The Guardian, 2018).
    • Example 2: Bungee jumping in Switzerland (2017-2021) for adrenaline therapy. Participants report reduced anxiety and stress levels (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 3: Adventure racing in South Africa (2018-2021) for depression. Outdoor challenges improve mental health and well-being (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Analysis: Thrill-seeking activities can offer therapeutic benefits and improve mental health.

    V. Opposing View 1: Thrill-Seeking as a Distraction from Life’s Issues

    • Topic Sentence: Some use thrill-seeking as a distraction from personal problems.
    • Example 1: BASE jumping in Norway (2017-2021) as an escape.
    • Participants often seek relief from personal stresses (source: The Guardian, 2020).
    • Example 2: High-risk skateboarding in Spain (2018-2021) to avoid life pressures. Young people turn to extreme sports to cope with societal pressures (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 3: Parkour in France (2019-2021) to escape urban life challenges.
      • Context: Practitioners use parkour to navigate and escape urban stress (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Analysis: For some, thrill-seeking serves as a means of escaping personal or societal issues.

    VI. Opposing View 2: Thrill-Seeking Due to Societal Influence

    • Topic Sentence: Societal and cultural influences drive some people to seek danger.
    • Example 1: Extreme sports in Japan (2018-2021) influenced by media. Media glorification of extreme sports increases participation (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 2: Adventure tourism in Iceland (2017-2021) driven by social media. Social media trends encourage risky tourist behaviours (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Example 3: Dangerous stunts in Russia (2019-2021) inspired by online challenges. Viral internet challenges push people towards risky activities (source: The Guardian, 2021).
    • Analysis: Societal and cultural pressures can significantly influence thrill-seeking behaviour.

    VII. Opposing View 3: Controlled Risk-Taking as Part of Professional Pursuits

    • Topic Sentence: For some, thrill-seeking is an integral part of their personal and professional pursuits.
    • Example 1: Professional stunt performers in the UK (2016-2021). Thrill-seeking is part of their job and skill set (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 2: Scientific research expeditions in Antarctica (2017-2021). Researchers face extreme conditions for scientific discovery (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Example 3: Wildlife photographers in Africa (2018-2021). Documenting wildlife requires facing dangerous environments (source: The Guardian, 2021).
    • Analysis: For professionals, thrill-seeking is often a necessary and calculated part of their careers.

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Craving danger is not necessarily due to a lack of better alternatives; it can be motivated by personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits.
    • Summary of Key Points: Lack of purpose, personal growth, mental health versus distraction, societal influence, professional pursuits.
    • Final Thought: Understanding the diverse motivations behind thrill-seeking can help address misconceptions and provide better support for those engaged in such activities.

    Which is more important in the 21st century: beauty or intelligence?

    In the 21st century, intelligence is generally more vital than beauty, driving innovation and problem-solving, although beauty still holds significant social and cultural value.

    In the 21st century, intelligence is generally more vital than beauty, driving innovation and problem-solving, although beauty still holds significant social and cultural value.

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: The enhanced standard of living and quality of living over the last 20 years are all thanks to sporadic and collective intelligence – not beauty!
    • Background: Overview of the roles of beauty and intelligence in society.
    • Thesis Statement: Intelligence is more vital in the 21st century, yet beauty remains significant in social and cultural contexts.

    II. Supporting View 1: Intelligence Drives Innovation and Progress

    • Topic Sentence: Intelligence is more important than beauty as intelligence is essential for technological and scientific advancements.
    • Example 1: Greta Thunberg’s climate activism (2018-2021) driven by her understanding of climate science. Her intelligence and knowledge have mobilised global climate action (source: BBC, 2019). Greta Thunberg has influenced millions of students in over 100 countries.
    • Example 2: India’s space missions (2017-2021) showcasing scientific prowess. ISRO’s Mars mission demonstrated advanced technological capabilities (source: The Guardian, 2017). India became the first nation to reach Mars on its first attempt.
    • Example 3: Singapore’s smart nation initiatives (2016-2021) leveraging intelligence. Advanced technologies improved urban living and efficiency (source: Reuters, 2020). Singapore ranks among the top smart cities globally.
    • Analysis: Intelligence fosters innovation, crucial for addressing modern challenges.

    III. Supporting View 2: Intelligence Enhances Economic Opportunities

    • Topic Sentence: Intelligence is more important than beauty as intelligence is vital for career success and economic growth.
    • Example 1: Germany’s focus on STEM education (2016-2021) boosting the economy. Emphasis on science and technology education led to economic resilience (source: The Guardian, 2018). STEM fields in Germany contribute significantly to GDP growth.
    • Example 2: South Korea’s tech industry (2017-2021) driven by intelligent workforce. High levels of education fostered a thriving tech sector (source: Reuters, 2019). South Korea ranks high in global innovation indices.
    • Example 3: Finland’s education system (2015-2021) prioritising critical thinking. Produced a highly skilled workforce, driving innovation (source: BBC, 2020). Finland consistently tops international education rankings.
    • Analysis: Intelligence and education are key to economic success and individual prosperity.

    IV. Supporting View 3: Intelligence Solves Global Problems

    • Topic Sentence: Intelligence is more important than beauty as intelligence has solved critical global issues.
    • Example 1: COVID-19 vaccine development (2020-2021) showcasing scientific intelligence. Rapid development of vaccines mitigated the pandemic (source: The Guardian, 2021). Vaccines developed within a year saved millions of lives.
    • Example 2: Japan’s disaster response technologies (2016-2021) improving resilience. Intelligent systems reduced disaster impact and improved recovery (source: Reuters, 2020). Advanced warning systems reduced disaster fatalities by 30%.
    • Example 3: Kenya’s innovative water management (2017-2021) addressing drought. Smart technologies conserved water and supported agriculture (source: BBC, 2019). Innovative irrigation systems increased agricultural yields by 20%.
    • Analysis: Intelligence is crucial for developing solutions to complex global challenges.

    V. Opposing View 1: Beauty’s Social and Cultural Influence

    • Topic Sentence: Beauty remains vital for social acceptance and cultural impact.
    • Example 1: South Korea’s beauty industry (2016-2021) influencing global standards. Beauty products and trends gained international popularity (source: The Straits Times, 2019). K-beauty industry valued at $10 billion.
    • Example 2: Bollywood’s emphasis on beauty (2017-2021) shaping cultural norms. Influenced fashion and lifestyle across India and beyond (source: BBC, 2018). Bollywood is a $2.5 billion industry.
    • Example 3: Brazil’s plastic surgery market (2015-2021) reflecting societal values. High demand for cosmetic surgery highlights beauty’s importance (source: Reuters, 2019). Brazil performs over 1.5 million cosmetic surgeries annually.
    • Analysis: Beauty continues to hold significant social and cultural influence.

    VI. Opposing View 2: Beauty’s Role in Media and Entertainment

    • Topic Sentence: Beauty is essential in media and entertainment industries.
    • Example 1: K-pop’s global success (2016-2021) driven by visual appeal. Attractive visuals played a key role in the industry’s popularity (source: The Guardian, 2019). K-pop generated $5 billion in revenue in 2019.
    • Example 2: French fashion industry (2017-2021) setting global beauty trends. High aesthetic standards maintained its global influence (source: Reuters, 2020). France’s fashion industry valued at $150 billion.
    • Example 3: Italy’s luxury brand dominance (2015-2021) emphasising beauty. Fashion and design industries thrived on visual appeal (source: BBC, 2020). Italy’s luxury market worth over $70 billion.
    • Analysis: Beauty is crucial in industries where visual appeal drives success.

    VII. Opposing View 3: Beauty’s Psychological and Social Benefits

    • Topic Sentence: Beauty contributes to psychological well-being and social advantages.
    • Example 1: Norway’s wellness tourism (2016-2021) focusing on natural beauty. Beautiful landscapes promoted mental health and well-being (source: The Straits Times, 2018). Wellness tourism grew by 8% annually.
    • Example 2: Spain’s cosmetic industry (2017-2021) boosting self-esteem. Access to beauty products improved self-confidence (source: Reuters, 2019). Spain’s cosmetic market valued at $8 billion.
    • Example 3: Thailand’s beauty pageants (2015-2021) offering social mobility. Winners gained social recognition and opportunities (source: BBC, 2021). Beauty pageant industry contributes significantly to local economies.
    • Analysis: Beauty can enhance psychological well-being and provide social benefits.

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Intelligence is more vital in the 21st century, yet beauty remains significant in social and cultural contexts.
    • Summary of Key Points: Intelligence drives innovation, economic growth, problem-solving versus beauty’s social influence, media role, psychological benefits.
    • Call to Action: Encourage a balance between valuing intelligence and appreciating beauty to create a more enriched and successful society.
    • Final Thought: Balancing intelligence and beauty can lead to a more enriched and successful society.

    Tourism will be the death of the environment. Discuss.

    Tourism significantly impacts the environment through resource depletion and pollution, but sustainable practices and regulations can mitigate these effects, preventing tourism from being the death of the environment.

    Tourism significantly impacts the environment through resource depletion and pollution, but sustainable practices and regulations can mitigate these effects, preventing tourism from being the death of the environment.

    I. Introduction

    • Hook: There is little doubt that tourism is paving the way to environmental ruin.
    • Background: Overview of tourism’s impact on the environment.
    • Thesis Statement: Tourism has severe environmental impacts, but sustainable practices and regulations can prevent it from being the death of the environment.

    II. Supporting View 1: Resource Depletion and Habitat Destruction

    • Topic Sentence: Tourism significantly impacts the environment primarily through resource depletion and habitat destruction.
    • Example 1: Thailand’s over-tourism (2018-2021) led to the closure of Maya Bay. Coral reefs damaged by excessive tourist activity (source: BBC, 2018).
    • Example 2: Maldives’ water scarcity (2017-2021) exacerbated by high tourist demand. Freshwater resources strained, affecting local populations (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Example 3: Iceland’s fragile ecosystems (2015-2021) threatened by rapid tourism growth. Increased foot traffic led to soil erosion and habitat loss (source: The Guardian, 2019).
    • Analysis: Tourism can severely deplete natural resources and destroy habitats, necessitating urgent action.

    III. Supporting View 2: Pollution and Waste

    • Topic Sentence: Tourism significantly impacts the environment as it is a primary contributor to environmental pollution and waste.
    • Example 1: Bali’s waste crisis (2017-2021) worsened by tourism. Beaches polluted with plastic waste from tourists (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 2: Venice’s air and water pollution (2015-2021) due to cruise ships. Ships emitted pollutants, harming air quality and marine life (source: BBC, 2020).
    • Example 3: Mount Everest’s litter problem (2018-2021) from climbing expeditions. Climbing activities left the mountain strewn with waste (source: The Guardian, 2024).
    • Analysis: Tourist activities generate significant pollution and waste, posing serious environmental threats.

    IV. Supporting View 3: Climate Change and Carbon Footprint

    • Topic Sentence: Tourism significantly impacts the environment by exacerbating climate change.
    • Example 1: Increased flights to New Zealand (2016-2021) raised carbon emissions. Tourist flights contributed to rising greenhouse gases (source: BBC, 2018).
    • Example 2: Carbon footprint of Mediterranean tourism (2017-2021) increased. High tourist numbers led to more emissions from travel and accommodation (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Example 3: Kenya’s wildlife tourism (2015-2021) impacted by climate change. Increased emissions from tourism affected local climates and wildlife habitats (source: Al Jazeera, 2020).
    • Analysis: Tourism significantly contributes to carbon emissions, worsening climate change.

    V. Opposing View 1: Sustainable Tourism Practices

    • Topic Sentence: Sustainable tourism practices can prevent tourism from being the main factor in environmental degradation.
    • Example 1: Bhutan’s high-value, low-impact tourism model (2016-2021). Controlled tourist numbers minimized environmental impact (source: Reuters, 2023).
    • Example 2: Costa Rica’s ecotourism (2015-2021) promoted conservation. Ecotourism initiatives protected biodiversity and supported local economies (source: BBC, 2019).
    • Example 3: Norway’s fjord regulations (2017-2021) restricted cruise ship emissions. Policies reduced pollution in fjord regions (source: Reuters, 2020).
    • Analysis: Sustainable tourism models can significantly reduce environmental impacts.

    VI. Opposing View 2: Economic and Conservation Benefits

    • Topic Sentence: Tourism provides economic and conservation benefits that can offset environmental damage.
    • Example 1: Kenya’s wildlife tourism (2016-2021) funded conservation efforts. Revenue from tourism supported wildlife protection programs (source: Al Jazeera, 2020).
    • Example 2: Galápagos Islands tourism (2017-2021) funded ecological preservation. Tourist fees financed conservation projects and controlled access (source: Harvard International Review, 2023).
    • Example 3: Nepal’s trekking tourism (2015-2021) boosted local economies. Tourism revenue supported local communities and conservation (source: The Guardian, 2018).
    • Analysis: Tourism can provide critical funding for conservation and local economies, balancing environmental impacts.

    VII. Opposing View 3: Technological Innovations and Policies

    • Topic Sentence: Technological innovations and policies can mitigate tourism’s environmental impact.
    • Example 1: Smart tourism in Singapore (2016-2021) using technology to manage tourist flows. Reduced overcrowding and environmental impact (source: The Straits Times, 2020).
    • Example 2: Italy’s restrictions on Venice tourism (2017-2021) to protect the city. Policies limited tourist numbers and reduced pollution (source: Reuters, 2019).
    • Example 3: Sweden’s green flight technology (2018-2021) to reduce aviation emissions. Innovations in aircraft design lowered carbon footprints (source: The Guardian, 2020).
    • Analysis: Technological advancements and regulations can significantly mitigate the environmental impacts of tourism.

    VIII. Conclusion

    • Restate Thesis: Tourism significantly impacts the environment, but sustainable practices and regulations can prevent it from being the death of the environment.
    • Summary of Key Points: Resource depletion, pollution, climate change versus sustainable practices, economic benefits, technological innovations.
    • Call to Action: Encourage responsible tourism and support policies that mitigate environmental impacts.
    • Final Thought: Balancing tourism with environmental sustainability is crucial for preserving the planet.