China Remembers Jane Goodall's Legacy as a Guiding Light in Wildlife Conservation
Jane Goodall has been honored as a "source of inspiration" across China, with millions people expressing admiration online to the conservationist who passed away recently at the age of ninety-one.
The British primatologist and creator of the institute bearing her name was highly respected in the country, and her research and discoveries were ubiquitous in local textbooks, which listed her among "accomplished females" in text books.
Educational Impact Through Roots and Shoots
Her institute's flagship Roots and Shoots program collaborated with more than 1,000 schools across the nation, and over three decades it trained thousands of educators and educated numerous students across multiple regions about protecting animals and the natural world.
"Her story is truly inspiring, and I was deeply influenced by it," a science communication expert from the National Zoological Museum stated.
"It's easy to make declarations, but it's very challenging to actually achieve results and make an impact," Sun added, who had encountered Dr. Goodall on multiple instances.
Expert Tributes and Public Recognition
Several high-profile scientists in the country paid tribute to Goodall following her passing.
"Through her personal efforts, she persistently campaigned for animal and environmental protection, aspiring that humanity would love and safeguard nature," the specialist commented.
Shi Jun from the Chinese Academy of Sciences referred to Goodall as "a model for all biologists and naturalists."
Long-standing Connection with the Nation
State media noted the scientist's "long-standing connection with the country," which she traveled to repeatedly last year, and spoke to state broadcaster, observing ecological improvements in the nation.
"Her environmental philosophy and approach have influenced numerous individuals in China," reported Chinese media.
In recent years, Goodall commented about the transformations in the country since her initial trip two decades prior, with government efforts driven in part by the decline of environments such as the major river system, and the rise of rare public protests.
"There is no doubt that more and more Chinese have grown conscious of ecological issues and the risk of the extinction of many species due to people's actions," she remarked.
The scientist acknowledged it was true that the nation had caused great harm to the ecosystem both locally and globally, but her vision was that the country "might pioneer efforts in phasing out the dependence on fossil fuels and establish a more sustainable future."
Social Media Response and Popular Reaction
News of her passing also generated countless of engagements on social media platforms such as Chinese microblogging sites, where a related hashtag was viewed 120 million times, and video platforms, where Dr. Goodall posted videos.
"We appreciate for your efforts to animal studies and protection, and for setting an inspiring example for women everywhere," said a user's message under the scientist's most recent video, in which she called for action and hope against conflict and environmental destruction sweeping the world, and the worsening impact of climate change.
"Decades ago, I participated in the conservation initiative 'the youth program' at my educational institution, founded by Dr. Goodall in my campus. It has shaped my perspective significantly," shared a social media participant.
"A conservation filmmaker", the founder of Wild China Film, said Dr. Goodall had become "a guiding light, leading us forward."
"The environmental principles she has sown across the world will bring hope to this beautiful yet fragile planet," he concluded.