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Our planet is under pressure, but optimism persists. A new award from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire individuals to take action.

The medal is to be awarded in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the unique bond she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was 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 be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must really start reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today involves the spread of false information. The theme 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 are involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that this honor will inspire action. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humans can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the initiatives of a foundation that, among its other activities, helps the next generation get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”