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Earth is under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage people to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who protect the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this undermines the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change our relationship with wildlife around us.”

A major topic today is the proliferation of false information. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal will inspire action. “The purpose is encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will offer support and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”