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Our planet could be under pressure, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire people to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good so we have to commence reconsidering, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic today is the proliferation of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to participate and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the programs of an institute that, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions have an impact 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 increase understanding about the positive actions that people are making.”