Air transport is increasingly used to export fruit and vegetables to countries where they cannot be grown or are out of season. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

Fresh produce is more frequently being exported by air to
countries
where it is out of season or impossible to grow. The advantages of
this
are that consumers can enjoy a wider range of fresh fruits and vegetables all year, and some
countries
rely on imported
food
to feed their people.
However
, the disadvantages are that it puts tremendous strain on the
environment
and encourages harmful farming methods. One benefit of importing fruit and vegetables is the wide range of products that can be found throughout the year. Some
countries
are only able to produce certain crops during specific seasons, so, without imports, they wouldn’t be able to consume these foods year-round.
Moreover
, imported produce is vital for survival in some
countries
.
This
is because their harsh
environment
prevents sufficient
food
from being grown. Qatar,
for instance
, is mostly desert and relies largely on imported produce.
On the other hand
, a drawback is
a
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pollution caused by aeroplanes. Each time
food
is exported, a huge amount of fuel is burned, resulting in carbon emissions that contribute to global warming.
This
is compounded by the fact that exporting
food
often results in farming practices that damage the
environment
. The extra demand of overseas markets requires domestic producers to increase their
food
production, which often means using dangerous pesticides and herbicides. In Spain,
for example
, it is common for farmers to use glyphosate herbicides, and many waterways are contaminated with these hazardous chemicals. In conclusion,
while
the benefits of exporting produce overseas are that it allows people to eat a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables throughout the year, and it is essential for people in some
countries
to survive, the drawbacks are the costs to the
environment
and changes to farming methods.
Submitted by serginio.nick on

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task achievement
Try to include a more detailed introduction that outlines the main advantages and disadvantages you will discuss. This will help to prepare the reader for what is to come and make your argument clearer from the beginning.
coherence & cohesion
Consider diversifying your use of cohesive devices for better flow between ideas. Although your essay is well-structured, using a wider range of linking words can improve coherence and cohesion.
task achievement
To further support your points, incorporate more varied and detailed examples, as well as statistical data if possible. This can make your arguments more convincing and comprehensive.
task achievement
Your discussion of the advantages and disadvantages is balanced, showing a good understanding of the topic.
coherence & cohesion
The essay maintains a clear structure, with distinct paragraphs for the introduction, each of the main points, and the conclusion, which aids in its overall coherence and cohesion.
task achievement
You've effectively used examples, such as the reference to Qatar and Spain, to support your main points, making your argument more tangible and persuasive.

Your opinion

Don’t put your opinion unless you are asked to give it.

If the question asks what you think, you MUST give your opinion to get a good score.

Don’t leave your opinion until the conclusion.

Here are examples of instructions that require you to give your opinion:

...do you agree or disagree?...do you think...?...your opinion...?

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You are not ready for IELTS Speaking, if you

  • Can’t speak smoothly without pauses.
  • Use simple words and lack vocabulary.
  • Feel nervous and anxious when speaking.
Topic Vocabulary:
  • export
  • import
  • perishable goods
  • carbon footprint
  • greenhouse gas emissions
  • supply chain disruptions
  • economic benefits
  • culinary experiences
  • broader market
  • local produce
  • agricultural industries
  • external sources
  • competition
  • outcompete
  • vulnerable
  • high costs
  • freshness
  • accessibility
  • out of season
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