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The world might be facing challenges, however there is hope. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to motivate the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

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

It was shared that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the unique connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it's challenging to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today is the proliferation of disinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will spur action. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, highlighting the work of an institute which, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”