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The world could be under strain, but a sense of hope remains. A new award from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to inspire the public to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the close relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Present governance globally represents a war on science. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good so we have to commence reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present involves the spread of misinformation. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests are involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the work of an institute that, in addition to its projects, empowers young people become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”