Honouring the Life and Legacy of Dr Jane Goodall
It is with profound sadness that the Jane Goodall Institute announces the passing of our founder, Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, at the age of 91. Jane died of natural causes in Los Angeles, California, while on her speaking tour in the United States.
Dr. Goodall was a trailblazer whose life and work transformed our understanding of animals, people and the planet we share. She was a remarkable example of courage and conviction, working tirelessly to raise awareness of threats to wildlife, to promote conservation, and to inspire a more sustainable and compassionate world.
In 1960, at just 26 years old, Jane travelled to Gombe, Tanzania, where she began what is now the world’s longest-running study of wild chimpanzees. Immersing herself in their world, she made discoveries that shook science to its core: chimpanzees use tools, show compassion, form strong family bonds, and even engage in hunting and warfare. Her pioneering research redefined what it means to be human, influenced fields from animal behaviour to human health and ecology, and helped break barriers for women in science.
Beyond her scientific achievements, Jane was a tireless advocate for conservation and community-led change. For more than four decades she advanced the Jane Goodall Institute’s programmes across Africa and around the world. In 1991, she founded Roots & Shoots, now active in nearly 75 countries, empowering young people to lead projects for people, animals and the environment. Jane often said that young people gave her the greatest reasons for hope.
Since being appointed a UN Messenger of Peace in 2002, Jane continued to inspire millions, travelling as much as 300 days a year well into her later life. When she could no longer travel, she reached new audiences virtually, sharing her voice through talks, interviews, and her podcast The Hopecast. She spoke out on human rights, animal welfare, species protection, climate change and the interconnected crises facing our world, always with a message of hope and the reminder that each of us can make a difference.
Jane’s many honours include being named a Dame Commander of the British Empire, serving as a UN Messenger of Peace, and most recently receiving the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025.
Her vision lives on through the work of the Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots. Together, our global chapters will continue her mission, advancing science, conservation, and youth empowerment. Her message remains clear: through compassion and action, we can build a better future for all life on Earth.
The Jane Goodall Institute UK and our colleagues worldwide are deeply grateful to our friends, partners and supporters during this difficult time. If you would like to share a remembrance of Dr. Goodall and continue her legacy, please visit www.janegoodall.org.uk