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The world might be under pressure, however there is hope. A new award from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to motivate people to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died recently. It will recognise those who protect the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

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

It was shared that Jane 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 with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the very special relationship she had with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to create a planet improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

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

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation represents a war on science. So this undermines the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that this honor can motivate action. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists young people become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often 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 raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”