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Earth might be under pressure, however there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate individuals to take action.

The medal will be given to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect the natural world.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements 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. “She expressed she would like this to happen. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled 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 a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to commence reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to change our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of false information. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that this honor can motivate concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, helps the next generation get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”