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Our planet might be under pressure, however there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the esteemed British primatologist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the unique relationship she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to really start thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become a subject of discussion when politics is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope remains that this honor will spur concrete steps. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must focus on working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared hope that “given direction and when empowered, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, helps the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, the choices we make each day make a difference 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 increase understanding regarding the positive actions that people are making.”