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The world is under pressure, however optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage individuals to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in honour of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who champion the natural world.

Award Details

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

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the unique relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation represents a war on science. So this really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good which means we need to really start reconsidering, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change our relationship with the other animals around us.”

Another key issue currently was highlighted of false information. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become contested when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor can motivate positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must focus on working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, pointing to the programs of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”