BEST IELTS General Reading Test 573

Table of Contents

IELTS GENERAL READING TEST 573 – PASSAGE – 2

IELTS GENERAL READING TEST – 573

READING PASSAGE – 2

The Benefits of Workplace Volunteering Programs

In recent years, many companies have begun offering workplace volunteering programs that allow employees to dedicate a portion of their workweek to social or environmental causes. Typically, these programs permit staff to spend one or two days a month volunteering with local charities, environmental groups, or educational institutions.

Employers are finding that such programs benefit not only the community but also their own organisations. Volunteering promotes teamwork and allows employees to develop new skills that can be transferred to the workplace. For example, organising a fundraising event can improve planning and communication abilities. It also gives workers a sense of purpose and connection beyond their daily roles.

IELTS General Reading Test

Employees, too, report increased job satisfaction and morale when participating in company-supported volunteering. In a recent survey, over 70% of respondents said volunteering made them feel more positive about their employer. They appreciated being given time to contribute to meaningful causes during working hours.

However, not all volunteering programs are effective. Experts advise that companies should partner with local organisations and allow employees to choose causes that matter to them personally. Mandatory volunteering can have the opposite effect—leading to resentment or stress. The key is to make participation voluntary and aligned with employee interests.

Workplace volunteering is not just a trend but a meaningful part of modern corporate culture. When done well, it fosters a more engaged, skilled, and socially responsible workforce.

IELTS General Reading Test

Questions 15–21

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

15. Workplace volunteering allows employees to:

A. take extended vacations

B. switch jobs more easily

C. work with outside organisations

D. reduce their daily hours

16. A benefit for companies is that employees:

A. are more punctual

B. learn transferable skills

C. require less training

D. demand fewer pay raises

IELTS General Reading Test

17. Volunteering helps improve employees’:

A. communication and leadership

B. salary and job role

C. leave and overtime

D. location and hours

18. Most employees feel volunteering:

A. is a waste of time

B. improves their image

C. helps them work faster

D. increases their happiness at work

IELTS General Reading Test

19. Mandatory programs may result in:

A. strong teamwork

B. less community impact

C. lower morale

D. more employee promotions

20. Experts recommend companies:

A. support one single cause

B. make volunteering optional

C. avoid non-local organisations

D. offer financial bonuses

IELTS General Reading Test

21. The main message is that volunteering:

A. must be done full-time

B. is outdated

C. improves business and society

D. should replace training

Read the text below and answer Questions 22–28.

Sustainable Fashion: A Shift in the Clothing Industry

The fashion industry has long been criticised for its environmental impact. Mass production, fast fashion, and excessive waste have made clothing one of the most polluting sectors globally. However, a shift is underway as more consumers and brands move toward sustainable fashion.

Sustainable fashion refers to clothing that is produced, marketed, and consumed in environmentally and socially responsible ways. This includes using organic or recycled materials, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers, and designing products to last longer. Some companies are even introducing “take-back” programs that allow customers to return old clothing for recycling.

IELTS General Reading Test

Brands like Patagonia, Stella McCartney, and Eileen Fisher have become industry leaders in sustainability. They promote transparency in their supply chains, avoiding harmful chemicals and reducing carbon emissions. Meanwhile, smaller independent labels are also rising, often relying on handmade items and ethical sourcing.

Consumers play a crucial role in this movement. People are encouraged to buy less, choose higher-quality garments, and avoid discarding clothes unnecessarily. Thrift stores, clothing swaps, and rental fashion are also gaining popularity. According to recent studies, extending the life of a garment by just nine months can reduce its environmental footprint by 30%.

IELTS General Reading Test

Despite the progress, challenges remain. Sustainable materials can be expensive, and greenwashing—when companies falsely claim to be eco-friendly—is a growing concern. As awareness spreads, watchdog organisations and third-party certifications are working to hold companies accountable.

Sustainable fashion is not a short-term trend but a necessary transformation. As environmental pressures rise, the fashion industry must adapt to a future where style and responsibility coexist.

Questions 22–28

Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

Sustainable fashion aims to reduce the 22.__________ and social damage caused by traditional clothing production. Brands use 23.__________ or recycled fabrics and avoid using 24.__________ substances. Some also offer programs for customers to return clothes for 25.__________.

Consumers are encouraged to purchase fewer but better-quality items and use 26.__________ shops or clothing rental services. One report showed that wearing an item longer reduces its 27.__________ effect. However, false claims of eco-friendliness—also known as 28.__________—are a problem that needs monitoring.

IELTS General Reading Test

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