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Earth is under strain, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage people to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the close connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “Frankly, it's challenging to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation represents a war on science. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the whole way that we treat our environment.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today involves the spread of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming contested when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal will inspire positive change. “The purpose is encouraging people to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, empowers young people become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”