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Jane Goodall has been celebrated as a "guiding light" across China, with millions people paying tribute online to the environmental advocate who passed away recently at the age of 91.

The British primatologist and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute was well known 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 organization's primary Roots and Shoots program worked with over a thousand educational institutions across the nation, and over three decades it educated thousands of educators and educated countless students across multiple regions about protecting animals and the environment.

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

"It's easy to shout slogans, but it's extremely difficult to actually achieve results and make an impact," Sun noted, who had met Goodall on many occasions.

Scientific Community and Widespread Appreciation

Several prominent researchers in the country paid tribute to the conservationist following her passing.

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

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

Long-standing Connection with the Nation

Official news outlets highlighted the scientist's "long-standing connection with the country," which she visited for the 17th time last year, and spoke to state broadcaster, observing ecological improvements in the nation.

"Her environmental philosophy and spirit have inspired many people in China," reported Chinese media.

In recent years, Goodall spoke about the changes in the nation since her first visit two decades prior, with official initiatives driven in part by the decline of natural habitats such as the major river system, and the emergence of uncommon public demonstrations.

"There is no doubt that more and more Chinese have grown conscious of environmental problems and the risk of the extinction of many species due to people's actions," she remarked.

The scientist said it was accurate that the nation had caused great harm to the environment both locally and globally, but her vision was that the nation "might pioneer efforts in phasing out the need for traditional energy and establish a greener tomorrow."

Online Tributes and Popular Reaction

News of her passing also generated hundreds of millions of engagements on social media platforms such as Weibo, where a relevant topic was viewed 120 million times, and Bilibili, where Goodall shared content.

"Thank you for your efforts to animal studies and conservation, and for setting an inspiring example for females worldwide," said a user's message under the scientist's most recent video, in which she urged movement and optimism against conflict and ecological damage sweeping the world, and the worsening impact of climate change.

"Years back, I attended the environmental programme 'the youth program' at school, established by Dr. Goodall in my campus. It has shaped my perspective significantly," wrote a social media participant.

"Xi Zhilong", the creator of a production organization, said Dr. Goodall had become "an inspirational beacon, guiding our path."

"The environmental principles she has sown across the globe will offer promise to this beautiful yet fragile planet," he added.