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The world is under strain, however there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special bond she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to build an environment improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

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

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this undermines collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must commence thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of misinformation. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that this honor will inspire positive change. “It’s about motivating others to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humans can be diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”