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Earth is under strain, yet a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to motivate the public to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, things don’t look very good which means we need to really start reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern currently is the proliferation of misinformation. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming contested when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that the medal will spur action. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists young people become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”