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Our planet could be facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in honour of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the unique bond she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

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 inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure said, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to begin to thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “given direction and once enabled, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”