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Our planet could be facing challenges, yet optimism persists. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will inspire the public to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in memory of the esteemed British primatologist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. This is likely due to the unique bond she had with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement for the continuation 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 prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a war on science. So this really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good so we have to commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic at present was highlighted of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal will spur positive change. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared hope that “given direction and once enabled, people can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly told everyone, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”