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Earth is under pressure, but optimism persists. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire individuals to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique relationship she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

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

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it's challenging to feel hopeful. The current political climate in one major nation represents a war on science. So this undermines collective action.”

“Realistically, the situation appears very good which means we need to really start thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe it was a good time to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, among its other activities, empowers the youth become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will offer support and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”