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Our planet is under pressure, yet there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire the public to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the very special relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must begin to reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just global warming, that’s the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with wildlife with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently was highlighted of misinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to engage and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humans can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly told everyone, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”