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Earth is facing challenges, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will motivate the public to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who champion the natural world.

Award Details

The first recipients will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the unique connection she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

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

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance globally represents a war on science. So this really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to really start thinking again, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today is the proliferation of disinformation. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that this honor can motivate positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the work of an institute which, among its other activities, assists the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions currently in progress.”