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Our planet might be under strain, yet there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate people to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who passed away this year. It will recognise those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the unique connection she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to commence thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that factual reality has become a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will inspire action. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, people are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”