Cambridge IELTS 13 Test 4 Writing Task 2: Sample Answer

Despite impressive improvements in farming techniques, hundreds of millions of people still do not have enough to eat. The causes are complex, but several practical measures could reduce the problem significantly.

One major reason is poverty rather than a shortage of food. The world already produces enough calories to feed everyone, yet many families cannot afford them, particularly where wages are low and unemployment is high. Conflict and political instability also play a part, because wars destroy farmland, displace farmers and prevent aid from reaching those in need. In addition, climate change is causing droughts and floods in vulnerable regions, which wipe out harvests and push food prices up.

Another cause is waste and poor infrastructure. In many developing countries, a large share of crops rots before it reaches the market because of inadequate roads, storage and refrigeration. Meanwhile, wealthier nations throw away vast quantities of edible food, and land that could grow staple crops is often used for animal feed or biofuels.

There are, however, workable solutions. Governments and international organisations can invest in rural roads, warehouses and irrigation so that farmers lose less of what they grow. Small-scale growers should be given affordable loans, drought-resistant seeds and training in sustainable methods, which would raise their yields and incomes together. Wealthier countries can cut waste by improving date labelling and encouraging supermarkets to donate unsold produce, while also providing emergency assistance and supporting peace negotiations in conflict zones.

In conclusion, hunger persists because of poverty, conflict, climate pressures and wasteful or inefficient food systems, rather than because farmers cannot produce enough. Tackling these underlying issues through investment, fairer trade and smarter consumption would bring far greater benefits than technical progress alone.