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The world is facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to motivate individuals to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She said she would like for this to occur. This is likely because of the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

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

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it's challenging to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must really start thinking again, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present involves the spread of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor will spur concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to engage and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions currently in progress.”