The China Primatological Society is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Jane Goodall on October 1, 2025. A scientist and activist who devoted her entire life to exploring nature and safeguarding life, Dr. Goodall remained tirelessly active on the frontlines of conservation even at the age of 91. Her passing is a profound loss to the global scientific and conservation communities—especially to the field of primatology.
At just 26 years old, Dr. Goodall ventured into the forests of Gombe, Tanzania, where she spent decades living among wild chimpanzees. She was the first to record their use and making of tools, overturning the long-held belief that humans alone possessed this ability,and redefining the relationship between humans and our close relatives. She documented the complex social bonds, emotions and conflicts within chimpanzee societies, holding up to humanity a mirror of our place in nature.
Witnessing habitat destruction and the growing threat to chimpanzees, she transformed from scientist to activist, founding the Jane Goodall Institute and launching the Roots & Shoots youth program. Each year she traveled more than 300 days across the globe, bringing the seed of hope to more than 130 countries, including 17 visits to China. She have brought inspirations for generations of Chinese scholars and young people to take part in wildlife conservation. She reminded us, “If young people lose hope, that’s the end of humanity.”
Though she has passed, the flame she lit will never be extinguished. The China Primatological Society will carry forward her legacy, continuing to advance primate research and conservation, cultivating the youth, and resonating forever in the harmony between humanity and nature.
China Primatolgical Society
2nd October 2, 2025
