Jane Goodall has been celebrated as a "guiding light" across China, with countless people expressing admiration online to the conservationist who passed away recently at the age of 91.
The British scientist and creator of the institute bearing her name was well known in the country, and her studies and findings were widely included in Chinese educational materials, which listed her among "accomplished females" in text books.
Educational Impact Through Environmental Programs
Her institute's flagship Roots and Shoots program worked with more than 1,000 schools across the country, and over nearly 30 years it trained thousands of educators and educated numerous students across 25 provinces about protecting animals and the natural world.
"Her journey is deeply motivating, and I was profoundly affected by it," a science communication expert from the National Zoological Museum stated.
"It's easy to shout slogans, but it's very challenging to actually get things done and make an impact," Sun noted, who had met Goodall on multiple instances.
Expert Tributes and Public Recognition
Multiple high-profile scientists in China offered praise to Goodall following her passing.
"By her dedicated work, she continuously advocated for animal and environmental protection, hoping that people would love and safeguard nature," the specialist commented.
Shi Jun from the national research institute referred to Goodall as "an exemplar for all biologists and naturalists."
Enduring Relationship with China
State media noted the scientist's "enduring relationship with the country," which she visited for the 17th time last year, and spoke to national television, observing environmental progress in the nation.
"Her environmental philosophy and spirit have influenced many people in China," reported local news sources.
In recent years, the primatologist commented about the changes in the country since her first visit almost 20 years earlier, with official initiatives 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 become aware of ecological issues and the risk of the disappearance of numerous animals due to human activity," she remarked.
Goodall said it was accurate that the nation had created significant damage to the environment both locally and globally, but her vision was that the country "could lead the way in phasing out the dependence on traditional energy and create a more sustainable future."
Online Tributes 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 viewed 120 million times, and Bilibili, where Goodall shared content.
"Thank you for your contributions to wildlife research and protection, and for setting an inspiring example for women everywhere," said a user's message under Goodall's most recent video, in which she called for action and optimism against human violence and ecological damage globally occurring, and the increasing effects of climate change.
"Decades ago, I participated in the environmental programme 'the youth program' at school, established by Dr. Goodall in my school. It has shaped my perspective significantly," wrote a social media participant.
"A conservation filmmaker", the creator of Wild China Film, said Goodall had become "an inspirational beacon, guiding our path."
"The green seeds she has sown across the globe will bring hope to this magnificent but vulnerable planet," he concluded.
