Many people feel overwhelmed by what is happening on a variety of fronts – in relation to the crises in the natural world, to escalating climate change, to horrific wars, to violence in our communities, to economic hardship and to political stupidity and incompetence. To some people the possibility that things could or will improve does not seem likely.
Dr Jane Goodall is not one of these people. She is a world-renowned primatologist, ethologist and environmental advocate who has just conducted a speaking tour on reasons for hope in Australia and New Zealand.
Over many years Dr Goodall, who conducted groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in the Gombi forests in Tanzania, has worked extensively on conservation and animal welfare issues. In order to encourage others to be involved in seeking positive change, she founded important international organisations – the Jane Goodall Institute (1977) and her youth program Roots and Shoots (1991).
Speaking before her recent tour she said, “Today’s young people – they’re so excited and empowered. We’re listening to their voices. That gives us reasons for hope. I love Australia and New Zealand with its rich biodiversity and proud First Nations heritage. It will be tremendous to catch up with old friends and meet some of the young leaders making a difference through Roots & Shoots.”
Major issues that she believes need addressing are loss of biodiversity and climate change. Another is the need to raise people out of poverty in countries where abject poverty is driving habitat clearing for reasons like the sale of timber or the need for cropland.
A major reason for hope, she says, is that nature is very resilient and, if it is allowed to recover, or is helped to do so, it will recover over time. She has seen that in the area surrounding the Gombi Stream National Park in Tanzania. Her other major hope lies in young people who, when committed to change, work enthusiastically towards it and also have the very important power of influencing their parents and others in the community.
Jane Goodall’s positive message is inspiring.
- Leonie Blain
Published in the "Voices for the Earth" column in The Clarence Valley Independent , June 12, 2024.
