Young people ‘greatest cause for hope’, says Jane Goodall in Citizens’ Assembly address – Irish Times News Jani

Climate change cannot be ignored, with floods, droughts and bushfires around the world, leading conservationist Dr Jane Goodall has told the Citizens Assembly.

Dr Goodall said his “greatest cause for hope” regarding biodiversity loss and climate action was the young people who were “changing the world”.

Dr Goodall was speaking via a virtual address on Saturday to 99 members of the Citizens’ Assembly, which is examining the issue of biodiversity loss, with its final meeting in Dublin at the weekend.

Assembly members are debating and considering draft recommendations that will be voted on by Sunday afternoon with the intention of reaching a final conclusion.

Following the vote, a final report will be drawn up before being formally sent to the Houses of the Oireachtas, containing the requested timeline for a response.

“My biggest reason for hope is young people,” said Dr. Goodall. “Once young people understand the issues and we empower them to take action, they are changing the world. It’s not that they can, they are.”

Dr. Goodall said his Roots and Shoots education program on environmental conservation for youth has grown from 12 students in 1991 to “hundreds of thousands of youth.”

“Young people have extraordinary imaginations, they are always looking for new ways to help the environment,” he said.

“They are my biggest reason for hope, they are creating awareness among their peers, changing the attitudes of their parents and grandparents, who are sometimes in high decision-making positions.”

Dr. Goodall also stressed the importance of collaborative partnerships and “greening of cities” to bring about urban biodiversity.

“It will be incredibly beneficial for people living in inner cities who don’t have the opportunity to get out into nature,” he said.

“We now know that being in nature is beneficial for our physical and mental health. In fact, in some places, doctors are recommending time in nature for people with mental health problems or people with high levels of work stress. “

Ian Talbot, chief executive of Chambers Ireland, said that while small and medium-sized businesses are aware of their responsibility to tackle biodiversity loss, the sector needs support from big business, relevant authorities and the state to ensure they do so. Changes can be implemented.

Cody Preston of the Irish Schools Sustainability Network told members of the need for biodiversity loss to be made part of the national curriculum with the necessary resources and training for teachers.

Chair of the Assembly, Dr Ayubhan Né Sheliabhan, said 80 speakers had addressed members over the past six months and described Dr Goodall’s speech as “inspiring” and “full of hope”.

“As we move forward to make our final recommendations, I am confident that the members of this assembly will come up with a strong set of recommendations that outline the steps the state can take to address biodiversity loss,” he said. will present.”

“These recommendations will ensure that future generations will be able to trust and enjoy the world around them.”