Chimpanzee expert reveals plight of the vanishing primates

Dec 13 2007 by Alan Weston, Liverpool Daily Post

CONSERVATIONIST Dr Jane Goodall, famous for her work with chimpanzees in the wild, was in Liverpool last night to deliver a public lecture.

Dr Goodall became the first person to observe the Gombe chimps in East Africa making and using tools, which changed conventional thinking about the links between humans and primates.

More recently, Dr Goodall has become known as one of the world’s leading activists in raising awareness about environmental damage and animal abuse.

She launched the Roots and Shoots programme, which encourages children of all ages to take part in activities which will benefit humans, animals and the environment.

Last night’s lecture, called Reasons for Hope, was held at the University of Liverpool as part of the Year of Heritage series of lectures.

Dr Goodall, 73, said beforehand: “Since I began working with chimps in 1960, their numbers have dropped from over 1m to 150,000.

“All over the world, the wilderness is disappearing, species are vanishing, pollution is growing, deserts are spreading and climates are changing.

“But there are reasons for hope, such as the resilience of nature if we give it a chance, and that animals can be brought back from the edge of extinction.

“There is also the energy, enthusiasm, and commitment of youth.”

Dr Goodall will be receiving an honorary degree from the university today, in recognition of her work as a conservationist and campaigner for the environment.

The University of Liverpool’s vice-chancellor, Professor Drummond Bone, said: “Dr Goodall is a great champion of animal welfare and the environment, which is why we are honouring her.”