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Our planet could be under pressure, however there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will encourage the public to make a difference.

The medal will honor to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who protect our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Present governance globally represents a war on science. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reflecting, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to honor her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a subject of discussion when politics is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire action. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps the next generation get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”