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Our planet could be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage individuals to make a difference.

The medal will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who champion life on Earth.

Award Details

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

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely due to the very special relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it's challenging to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good which means we need to really start reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Therefore, it was noted this is an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of disinformation. The focus of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that the medal will inspire positive change. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the work of an institute that, among its other activities, empowers the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”