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Our planet is under strain, yet there is hope. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire people to act.

The medal will honor in honour of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

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

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the very special relationship she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus indicated 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 award for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure said, “Frankly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Present governance globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this undermines collective action.”

“Realistically, the situation appears very good so we have to really start reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently was highlighted of false information. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor will spur positive change. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the programs of an institute which, among its other activities, helps the youth get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”