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Earth might be under pressure, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage individuals to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for the natural world.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the very special relationship she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the situation appears very good which means we need to begin to reconsidering, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today is the proliferation of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will spur positive change. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute that, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions are significant 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 provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”