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Our planet is under strain, yet there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire individuals to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. Present governance globally represents a war on science. So this really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, things don’t look very good therefore we must commence thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern currently involves the spread of false information. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, helps young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“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. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about the positive actions currently in progress.”