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Earth could be under pressure, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage individuals to act.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the very special relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure said, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally is conducting a war on science. So this undermines collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

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

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming contested when politics is involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will inspire positive change. “The purpose is encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared optimism that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, helps young people get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, our daily actions have an impact 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 raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”