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The world is facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate people to act.

The medal will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the unique relationship she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Present governance globally is conducting a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good so we have to really start thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to follow her guiding principles. “I think 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 wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of disinformation. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”