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Earth might be under strain, yet optimism persists. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will inspire the public to take action.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The first recipients are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the close bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change our relationship with wildlife around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become a subject of discussion 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 from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that the medal will spur concrete steps. “The purpose is motivating others to participate and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers young people get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”