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Our planet might be facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus seeks to inspire the public to act.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are slated for announcement at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good so we have to really start thinking again, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of false information. The focus of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth is becoming contested when politics are involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal will inspire positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans can be diligent stewards of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”