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Earth might be under strain, but there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who champion the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The vision of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge 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.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to commence reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform how we regard wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today involves the spread of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor can motivate positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to participate and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared optimism that “given direction and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the initiatives of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, empowers the next generation get involved with their community, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”