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Our planet could be under strain, however optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in honour of the renowned British primatologist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The vision of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “Honestly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. So this significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“In truth, the situation appears very good therefore we must really start reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of disinformation. The focus of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that the medal will inspire positive change. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”