🔗 Share this article

The renowned primatologist has been honored as a "guiding light" across the nation, with countless people expressing admiration online to the environmental advocate who died this week at the age of 91.

This celebrated scientist and founder of the institute bearing her name was highly respected in China, and her studies and discoveries were ubiquitous in local textbooks, which listed her among "accomplished females" in text books.

Educational Impact Through Environmental Programs

Her institute's flagship Roots and Shoots program worked with over a thousand educational institutions across the country, and over nearly 30 years it trained thousands of educators and educated countless students across multiple regions about wildlife conservation and the natural world.

"Her story is deeply motivating, and I was profoundly affected by it," a science communication expert from the national museum stated.

"It's easy to make declarations, but it's extremely difficult to actually get things done and create change," the expert added, who had met Goodall on many occasions.

Expert Tributes and Widespread Appreciation

Several prominent researchers in the country offered praise to Goodall following her passing.

"By her dedicated work, she persistently campaigned for animal and environmental protection, hoping that people would cherish and protect nature," Sun commented.

Shi Jun from the Chinese Academy of Sciences described Dr. Goodall as "a model for all biologists and naturalists."

Long-standing Connection with China

Official news outlets noted the scientist's "enduring relationship with the country," which she traveled to repeatedly last year, and gave an interview to national television, remarking on ecological improvements in the nation.

"Her environmental philosophy and spirit have influenced many people in the country," reported local news sources.

In recent years, the primatologist spoke about the changes in the nation since her first visit almost 20 years earlier, with government efforts driven in part by the decline of natural habitats such as the Yangtze River basin, and the rise of uncommon public demonstrations.

"It is certain that increasing numbers of people have become aware of environmental problems and the risk of the disappearance of many species due to people's actions," she said.

The scientist acknowledged it was true that the nation had created significant damage to the ecosystem both locally and globally, but her message was that the nation "could lead the way in eliminating the dependence on fossil fuels and create a greener tomorrow."

Social Media Response and Popular Reaction

News of her passing also prompted countless of interactions on online networks such as Chinese microblogging sites, where a relevant topic was seen by millions, and video platforms, where Dr. Goodall posted videos.

"We appreciate for your efforts to animal studies and conservation, and for providing motivation for females worldwide," said a user's message under the scientist's most recent video, in which she called for action and optimism against human violence and ecological damage globally occurring, and the worsening impact of global warming.

"Decades ago, I participated in the conservation initiative 'the youth program' at school, founded by Dr. Goodall in my school. It has influenced me profoundly," wrote a social media participant.

"Xi Zhilong", the founder of a production organization, said Dr. Goodall had become "a guiding light, guiding our path."

"The green seeds she has planted across the globe will offer promise to this magnificent but vulnerable planet," he added.