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

The British scientist and creator of the Jane Goodall Institute was highly respected in China, and her research and findings were ubiquitous in Chinese educational materials, which listed her among "accomplished females" in text books.

Educational Impact Through Environmental Programs

Her organization's primary Roots and Shoots program collaborated with over a thousand educational institutions across the nation, and over nearly 30 years it educated thousands of educators and educated countless 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 make declarations, but it's extremely difficult to actually get things done and make an impact," Sun added, who had met Goodall on many occasions.

Scientific Community and Public Recognition

Several high-profile scientists in China offered praise to the conservationist following her passing.

"By her dedicated work, she persistently campaigned for wildlife and nature conservation, hoping that people would love and safeguard nature," the specialist commented.

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

Enduring Relationship with the Nation

State media highlighted the scientist's "long-standing connection with the country," which she visited for the 17th time last year, and gave an interview to national television, remarking on ecological improvements in the nation.

"Her environmental philosophy and approach have inspired many people in the country," reported Chinese media.

In 2017, the primatologist 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 environments such as the major river system, and the rise of rare public protests.

"It is certain that more and more Chinese have become aware of ecological issues and the risk of the extinction 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 vision was that the country "might pioneer efforts in eliminating the need for fossil fuels and create a greener tomorrow."

Online Tributes and Popular Reaction

News of her passing also prompted countless of interactions on online networks such as Weibo, where a relevant topic was seen 120 million times, and video platforms, where Goodall posted videos.

"Thank you for your efforts to wildlife research and conservation, and for providing motivation for females worldwide," said one comment under the scientist's most recent video, in which she called for action and hope against human violence and ecological damage sweeping the world, and the worsening impact of climate change.

"Years back, I participated in the conservation initiative 'Roots & Shoots' at my educational institution, founded by Jane Goodall in my school. It has shaped my perspective significantly," shared a Weibo user.

"Xi Zhilong", the creator of Wild China Film, said Goodall had become "an inspirational beacon, guiding our path."

"The green seeds she has planted across the world will bring hope to this magnificent but vulnerable planet," he concluded.