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The world is under strain, however optimism persists. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to motivate individuals to act.

The medal is to be awarded in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the very special bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to really start thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change our relationship with wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today is the proliferation of disinformation. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality has become contested where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”