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Earth might be facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will inspire the public to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “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 for this to occur. And I think due to the unique bond she shared with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must really start reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe it was an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of misinformation. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal can motivate positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the work of a foundation which, among its other activities, empowers the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”