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The world might be under pressure, but there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will motivate people to make a difference.

The medal will be given in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion the natural world.

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, things don’t look very good therefore we must begin to reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change our relationship with the other animals around us.”

Another key issue currently was highlighted of false information. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation get involved with their community, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”