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The world could be facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate the public to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in honour of the renowned British primatologist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. This is likely because of the close connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to really start reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of false information. The theme of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a subject of discussion when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor will inspire action. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute that, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that people are making.”