Youth-led environmental projects to keep Jane Goodall’s memory alive in UAE

Young people in the UAE will be empowered to lead environmental initiatives and raise awareness for conservation efforts, following the passing of renowned conservationist Jane Goodall. Dr Goodall, who died at the age of 91 on October 1, 2025, while on a speaking tour in the US, established Roots & Shoots, an international leadership program for young people aimed at addressing environmental challenges.

The UAE chapter of Roots & Shoots plans to expand its youth-focused conservation programs in the wake of Dr Goodall's death. Founded in Tanzania 35 years ago, Roots & Shoots has a network across 7,560 countries, including the UAE. Terra, located in Expo City Dubai, will serve as the program's first permanent office in the region, providing support to young people across the country.

Dr Goodall's spirit lives on in these young activists who are inspired by her example of courage, compassion, and service. Tara Golshan, executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute, emphasized that her passing does not signify the end of the movement she created but rather a call for action from all of us to create a better future.

Geraldine McCafferty, UK ambassador to the UAE, highlighted the importance of hope grounded in action, stating that when people feel connected to nature and to each other, they will protect what they value. Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, underscored the transformative power of education and the university's role in equipping future generations with knowledge and skills to tackle environmental challenges.