🔗 Share this article

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

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the close relationship she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it is difficult to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright therefore we must really start thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe this is an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested when politics is involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor will spur concrete steps. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists young people get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that people are making.”