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The world could be under pressure, yet there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. This is likely because of the very special relationship she had with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of disinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor will spur concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at working our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the work of an institute that, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives that people are making.”