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Our planet might be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The first recipients will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She said she would like this to happen. And I think because of the very special relationship she had with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to really start reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform how we regard the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern at present is the proliferation of false information. The focus of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor will spur action. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers the next generation become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions currently in progress.”