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Earth could be under pressure, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire the public to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died recently. It will recognise those who advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the unique bond she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation represents a war on science. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears very good therefore we must begin to reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that this honor will spur positive change. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the initiatives of an institute that, among its other activities, helps the next generation become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”