June 16, 2023

Merici College Green Tip #18 – Dr Jane Goodall is still hopeful about the Earth’s future

Dr Jane Goodall is world-leading primatologist who has spent decades at the forefront of conservation.

Dr Jane Goodall is world-leading primatologist who has spent decades at the forefront of conservation.

Dr Goodall says poverty and unsustainable lifestyles are among the main drivers of environmental destruction.

For all humankind’s flaws and destructive behaviours, Jane Goodall believes we can still save the Earth.

Now 88, she’s as focused as ever on bettering the planet, wanting to “speed up” rather than slow down while there’s still “so much to be done” for the environment – and everyone has a part to play.

Dr Goodall pointed to the loss of biodiversity as among the biggest problems facing the planet and emphasised its deep connection to climate change. The Merici Biodiversity Project is our effort to contribute to biodiversity restoration. 

She likened ecosystems to a “beautiful tapestry”, saying that, when one species of plant or animal disappeared, a thread was pulled from it, and it could ultimately “hang in tatters”.

Dr Goodall suggested people living in urban centres who have more options to consider their purchases should choose the most ethical one.

For example, choosing to eat less or no meat to minimise grazing, and in the case of companies, ensuring their environmental sustainability.

“Don’t forget that every day you live, you’re making an impact. Choose wisely, choose ethically – for the sake of the future.”

 

Felicity Maher
Sustainability Officer

Dr Jane Goodall is world-leading primatologist who has spent decades at the forefront of conservation.

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