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Our planet is facing challenges, however optimism persists. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who advocate for life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the very special connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure said, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, things don’t look very good therefore we must begin to reconsidering, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested where political interests are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal can motivate action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humans can be diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding the positive actions currently in progress.”