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Earth might be under pressure, yet optimism persists. A new award from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus seeks to inspire the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently was highlighted of false information. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that the medal can motivate action. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists young people get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day 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 provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”