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Our planet is under pressure, however there is hope. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus seeks to encourage the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the unique bond she had with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance globally represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“To be honest, things don’t look very good so we have to begin to reflecting, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

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

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a subject of discussion when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will spur positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humans can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists the youth get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”