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Our planet might be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will inspire individuals to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

Award Details

The first recipients are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the close relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance in one major nation represents a war on science. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must begin to reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern at present is the proliferation of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that this honor will spur action. “It focuses on motivating others to engage and to care and to strive in that direction, really. 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 continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”