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Earth could be facing challenges, however there is hope. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that protect the natural world.

Award Details

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good which means we need to commence thinking again, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform how we regard the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern today is the proliferation of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality has become a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed optimism 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 young people get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”