Individuals everywhere must make different choices if humanity - and many of the world's other species - are to avoid a "bleak" future, leading environmental campaigner Jane Goodall says.

Dr Goodall, who is heading to Australia in May for a series of talks dubbed Rewind the Future, said "the consumer must take responsibility", adding "the accumulation of millions of ethical choices will certainly make a difference - and it's beginning to happen".

Jane Goodall during a visit to Brisbane in 2017 to meet students and teachers involved in her foundation's Roots and Shoots school program. Credit:Glenn Hunt

The renowned naturalist, who turns 85 next month, said the increase in youth activity - such the global climate movement started by Swedish student Greta Thunberg - was a source of hope that rising environmental threats would be addressed.

Ms Thunberg is "completely amazing ... she's brave and she truly, truly believes in what's she's talking about", Dr Goodall said of the instigator of the School Strike 4 Climate.