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Earth is facing challenges, but optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to motivate individuals to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the unique bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright therefore we must commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

A Call to Action

As a result, observers believe it was a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of misinformation. The focus of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become a subject of discussion when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will spur positive change. “It focuses on motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the initiatives of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”