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The world is under pressure, but optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to motivate the public to act.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special relationship she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation represents a war on science. This situation significantly hampers collective action.”

“Realistically, things don’t look particularly bright which means we need to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to transform how we regard wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The focus of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to care and to work in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared optimism that “given direction and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists young people get involved with their community, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about constructive efforts currently in progress.”