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The world might be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must begin to reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

Another key issue at present is the proliferation of false information. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work shared optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, among its other activities, helps young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions that people are making.”