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The world could be under pressure, yet there is hope. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will motivate people to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the close relationship she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this undermines collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to commence reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, observers believe it was an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern at present involves the spread of false information. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, empowers the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about the positive actions that are being undertaken.”