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Earth might be under pressure, but optimism persists. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will inspire the public to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the unique relationship she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a war on science. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to begin to reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today is the proliferation of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “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 the medal will inspire action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at working all that is possible,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed optimism that “given direction and once enabled, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists young people get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly told everyone, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions currently in progress.”