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Earth is under strain, yet a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect life on Earth.

Award Details

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the unique relationship she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient 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 in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern at present is the proliferation of false information. The central topic of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that this honor will spur action. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the work of an institute that, among its other activities, assists the youth get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”