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Our planet might be under pressure, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the unique bond she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. Certain policies globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must really start reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that this honor will spur positive change. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”