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Our planet could be under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to encourage individuals to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival 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 backed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the close relationship she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally represents a dismissal of evidence. So this undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good which means we need to really start reflecting, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to transform how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion when politics is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that this honor will spur action. “It’s about motivating others to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and once enabled, humans can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, highlighting the programs of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”