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The world is under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the very special bond she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate globally represents a war on science. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good therefore we must begin to thinking again, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted this is an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change our relationship with wildlife with which we share the planet.”

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

“We realised that factual reality has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that the medal can motivate positive change. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared optimism that “given direction and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”