Dr. Jane Goodall, legendary primatologist and conservationist, greeted USF Tampa's nearly full Sun Dome on Tuesday night before her lecture through a "chimpspeak" call.
This is how Goodall, 80, addressed the primates she observed in Tanzania for more than 50 years.
During her talk, she discussed how the Doctor Dolittle and Tarzan books prompted her interest in animals, how she began her landmark chimpanzee studies and what she faced along the way.
She also mentioned, more than once, the possibilities for research on the natural world.
According to Goodall, a conference she attended inspired her to delve into environmental conservation, starting in Africa. And not just for the chimps, for its residents, too.
A United Nations Messenger for Peace, she said her community-focused conservation programs have championed issues like growing crops without harmful chemicals and expanding young girls' access to education. She also said Tanzania's been applauded by the government for its family planning initiatives.
However, Africa's not the only locale where harming the planet is found, she said.
Goodall talked about how the long-term impact of genetically modified food, of the antibiotics ingested through food, is unknown worldwide. She also said "heavy meat eating" is linked to deforestation since "huge areas are cleared" to grow grain for livestock, and to make sure they have a place to graze.
"I love pigs," she said, describing some of the conditions they endure within industrial agriculture, or intensive farming.
She added that farm animals feel pain, despite those who ask "Why does it matter?" when the topic of breeding animals for human consumption arises.
"Once you know what's going on ... (you wonder) what is it doing to us and these people who operate these concentration camps for animals?" she said.
Near the end of her lecture, Goodall reminded the stadium of students that there's still time to make a global difference.
"If you feel older generations have compromised your future, we have," Goodall said. "But it's not too late."