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Our planet could be under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate people to act.

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

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the very special relationship she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to commence reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue at present involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor will spur action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and once enabled, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the work of an institute that, among its other activities, helps young people get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant 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 offer support and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”