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Earth might be under pressure, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage the public to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the very special connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Present governance globally represents an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to honor her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A major topic at present involves the spread of disinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a subject of discussion when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that the medal will inspire action. “It’s about motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, helps young people get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about the positive actions that are being undertaken.”