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Earth is under pressure, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will encourage individuals to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

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

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the unique bond she shared with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure said, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to really start reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted this is a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform how we regard wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal can motivate action. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humans can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the work of an institute which, among its other activities, helps the next generation become engaged locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that people are making.”