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Earth could be under pressure, but optimism persists. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to motivate individuals to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the very special bond she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

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

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a war on science. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must really start reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of false information. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become contested when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps young people become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”