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Earth could be facing challenges, however optimism persists. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire individuals to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

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

It was shared that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She said she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the unique relationship she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to honor her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “It’s about encouraging people to engage and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of an institute which, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about constructive efforts that people are making.”