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Earth might be under strain, but there is hope. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire people to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the close bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally is conducting a war on science. So this undermines collective action.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to commence reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe it was an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that the medal will spur action. “It focuses on motivating others to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and once enabled, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”