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Our planet could be facing challenges, but optimism persists. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate the public to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the very special bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

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

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Present governance globally represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look very good therefore we must commence reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern today involves the spread of disinformation. The focus of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become contested where political interests is involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that the medal will inspire positive change. “The purpose is encouraging people to participate and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”