Jane Goodall urges action on biodiversity loss at COP16

Jane Goodall, the renowned British primatologist, reflects on her life and the importance of empathy in environmental activism as she turns 90. She emphasizes that anger is counterproductive in the fight against biodiversity loss, advocating for a more compassionate approach to engage those who may not share the same views. Goodall recalls her early experiences in the Tanzanian jungles, highlighting her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees and the lessons learned from her mother and her dog, Rusty. Throughout her career, Goodall has traveled extensively, dedicating 300 days a year to raising awareness about environmental issues. She believes that to effectively communicate the urgency of biodiversity loss and climate change, activists must connect emotionally with their audience rather than resorting to aggression. This approach, she argues, will foster understanding and cooperation rather than resistance. Goodall's insights challenge the traditional notion of objectivity in science, suggesting that personal experiences and emotions can play a crucial role in advocacy. She draws parallels between environmental activism and the nature of human conflict, asserting that individuals, not just systems, are responsible for the actions that lead to wars and environmental degradation. In her call to action, Goodall urges decision-makers to prioritize empathy and collaboration in their efforts to combat biodiversity loss. She hopes that the discussions at COP16 will lead to meaningful change rather than mere rhetoric, emphasizing the need for a united front in addressing the intertwined crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.