Which is a strong thesis for a persuasive essay?

• A. I think adding more recycling is good.
• B. A city-wide recycling program would be beneficial.
• C. Implementing a city-wide recycling program will reduce waste by 30% within five years, saving money and protecting the environment.
• D. Recycling is never harmful.

Answer: (C)

A strong thesis for a persuasive essay should present a specific, debatable claim that can be supported with evidence. The statement about implementing a city-wide recycling program that will reduce waste by 30% within five years, saving money and protecting the environment is the strongest because it names the exact policy, sets a measurable target, provides a timeline, and ties the outcome to concrete benefits. This combination gives the essay a clear direction and a solid basis for presenting data, costs, feasibility, and environmental impact to persuade readers. The other options are weaker because they express a view without a concrete plan or measurable outcomes, or they make an absolute claim that's hard to defend with specific evidence.