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The world could be facing challenges, but there is hope. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate individuals to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect life on Earth.

Award Details

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the unique relationship she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers collective action.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good therefore we must really start thinking again, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of false information. The central topic of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor can motivate action. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, helps young people become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”