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The world could be facing challenges, however optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise those who champion the natural world.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The vision of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate globally is conducting a war on science. So this significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must commence thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of false information. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” 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 is that this honor will inspire action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the work of an institute that, among its other activities, helps the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”