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Our planet might be facing challenges, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire individuals to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It will recognise those who advocate for life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the very special bond she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it's challenging to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally represents a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, observers believe this is an opportune moment to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding 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 around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that the medal can motivate action. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and when empowered, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”