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Earth might be under strain, however there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the close bond she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to build an environment improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to begin to reconsidering, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “I think 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 the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a subject of discussion when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that this honor will spur action. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists young people become engaged locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”