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Our planet is under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire the public to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for the natural world.

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 next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the unique bond she had with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

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

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation represents a war on science. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“Realistically, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to change our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming contested when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor can motivate action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists young people become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”