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Jane Goodall has been remembered as a "guiding light" across the nation, with millions people expressing admiration online to the environmental advocate who passed away recently at the age of ninety-one.

This celebrated primatologist and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute was highly respected in China, and her research and discoveries were widely included in local textbooks, which featured 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 three decades it trained 10,000 teachers and educated countless students across 25 provinces about protecting animals and the environment.

"Her story is deeply motivating, and I was deeply influenced by it," a science communication expert from the National Zoological Museum stated.

"It's easy to shout slogans, but it's extremely difficult to actually achieve results and create change," Sun added, who had encountered Dr. Goodall on many occasions.

Expert Tributes and Widespread Appreciation

Several high-profile scientists in the country paid tribute to Goodall following her death.

"By her dedicated work, she persistently campaigned for animal and environmental protection, aspiring that humanity would cherish and protect nature," Sun explained.

Another scientist from the national research institute described Dr. Goodall as "a model for all biologists and naturalists."

Enduring Relationship with China

State media noted the scientist's "long-standing connection with China," which she traveled to repeatedly last year, and spoke to state broadcaster, observing ecological improvements in the nation.

"Her conservation ethos and spirit have influenced many people in China," reported Chinese media.

In recent years, Goodall commented about the transformations in the country since her initial trip almost 20 years earlier, with government efforts driven in part by the decline of natural habitats such as the Yangtze River basin, and the emergence of rare public protests.

"There is no doubt that increasing numbers of people have grown conscious of ecological issues and the risk of the disappearance of numerous animals due to people's actions," she said.

The scientist said it was true that the nation had created significant damage to the environment domestically and overseas, but her vision was that the country "could lead the way in phasing out the dependence on fossil fuels and establish a more sustainable future."

Social Media Response and Public Sentiment

News of her death also prompted countless of interactions on social media platforms such as Weibo, where a related hashtag was seen 120 million times, and Bilibili, where Dr. Goodall posted videos.

"We appreciate for your contributions to animal studies and conservation, and for providing motivation for women everywhere," said one comment under Goodall's latest content, in which she called for action and hope against human violence and environmental destruction sweeping the world, and the increasing effects of climate change.

"Years back, I attended the conservation initiative 'Roots & Shoots' at my educational institution, established by Dr. Goodall in my school. It has influenced me profoundly," wrote a social media participant.

"A conservation filmmaker", the founder of a production organization, said Dr. Goodall had become "a guiding light, guiding our path."

"The green seeds she has sown across the world will offer promise to this beautiful yet fragile planet," he added.