Air pollution has become one of the most urgent environmental challenges faced by modern cities. As traffic emissions remain a major contributor to poor air quality, many governments have proposed increasing the cost of driving as a solution. Measures such ...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-07-23
To effectively argue if increasing the cost of driving will reduce air pollution, you must master the evidence, structure, and nuances of this complex issue. This guide provides concrete case studies, examiner insights, and graded examples to help you write a top-tier argumentative essay.
Why this matters on the exam
The topic of environmental policy and its social consequences is a common theme in the English subject curriculum for VG1–VG3. Exam tasks often require you to write an argumentative or discussion-based essay where you analyse a contemporary issue, weigh different viewpoints, and support your position with evidence. For example, a past exam might ask: "Governments face a choice between economic growth and environmental protection. Discuss." This essay topic directly tests your ability to navigate a similar dilemma: the environmental benefit of reducing pollution versus the economic hardship it may cause. To score well, you must demonstrate a structured argument, use precise language, and show an awareness of complexity rather than presenting a simple, one-sided opinion.
Introduction
Air pollution has become one of the most urgent environmental challenges faced by modern cities. As traffic emissions remain a major contributor to poor air quality, many governments have proposed increasing the cost of driving as a solution. Measures such as congestion charges, higher fuel taxes, and expensive parking fees are already in use in several countries. Supporters argue that raising the cost of driving will reduce car use, improve public health, and encourage greener alternatives. Critics, however, claim that such policies punish low-income drivers and fail to address deeper structural problems. This essay will argue that although increasing the cost of driving can significantly reduce air pollution, it must be combined with accessible public transportation and long-term sustainability policies to be truly effective. …