🔗 Share this article The Jane Goodall Earth Medal Will Recognise Those Acting to Improve the Planet. Earth might be under strain, yet optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage individuals to make a difference. A gathering related to the Starmus festival. The medal will be given in honour of the renowned British primatologist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth. Award Details The inaugural winners will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year. According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the very special connection she had with us.” “This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue that work,” commented a relative. Structure and Vision One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories. “The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal. Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure remarked, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this undermines the world’s efforts.” “To be honest, 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 only climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.” Following an Example As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform how we regard wildlife with which we share the planet.” A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”. “It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.” Optimism and Resolve The hope remains that the medal will spur positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still have to work toward success.” A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared hope that “given direction and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the programs of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth get involved locally, animals, and environment. “As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”