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Our planet might be under pressure, but optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage people to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the very special bond she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement for the continuation 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 – would probably have multiple categories.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become contested where political interests is involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that the medal will inspire action. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers young people get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”