The British researcher Jane Goodall, who turned 90 years old in April, started her groundbreaking long-term observations in the Gombe National Park in Tanzania in 1960. In her bestseller “In the Shadow of Man”, she managed to make her observations accessible to a broad public. Even in her old age, Jane Goodall continues her tireless efforts for nature conservation, the preservation of biodiversity, the responsible treatment of wildlife, and the conservation of primeval forests, placing her focus on endangered great apes.
The tree, an Ussurian Pear, will be adorned by a plaque of honour to commemorate Goodall’s remarkable work and her tireless conservation efforts for generations to come. The University’s Arboretum with its rare collection of plants and trees, which just like animals, are fighting for the survival of their own species, is an ideal location for the tree.
Prof. Dr. Katharina Riedel, Rector of the University of Greifswald, explains: “Jane Goodall’s commitment to the protection of species and the environment serves as an inspiring example to us all. In this celebratory year in recognition of her efforts, we are joining further universities, universities of applied sciences and other initiatives to plant treas. The planting of the tree not only honours her contributions, but also raises awareness for the world that surrounds us. This campaign underlines the ties between our research domain ‘One Health’ and the responsibility that we as society carry towards nature.”
The “One Health” concept is based on the realisation that the health of humans, animals and the environment are inseparably connected to one another. The University of Greifswald considers this approach in many of its research projects. With degree courses such as the B.Sc./M.Sc. in Landscape Ecology and Nature Conservation or M.Sc. Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution, the University offers programmes that provide solid training in the preservation of biodiversity and the sustainable treatment of our environment.
The tree will be planted on 14 November at 12.30 p.m. in the Arboretum. The meeting point is at the entrance of the Arboretum at 12.15 p.m. The University invites the general public to attend the ceremony and to join us in setting a good example for our environment.
Contact at the University of Greifswald
Prof. Matthias Eschrig
Dean’s Office of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Straße 15 A, 17489 Greifswald
Tel.: +49 3834 420 4000
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