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Earth could be under strain, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage the public to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for life on Earth.

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

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

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to really start reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, observers believe it was an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic at present is the proliferation of false information. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire action. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work toward success.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists the youth become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”