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Our planet might be facing challenges, however there is hope. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire individuals to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special relationship she had with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance globally represents a war on science. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good so we have to really start reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe it was an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

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

“We realised that factual reality has become a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humans can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”