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Earth could be under strain, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus seeks to motivate people to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for life on Earth.

Award Details

Initial honorees will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special connection she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, things don’t look very good which means we need to begin to reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern today is the proliferation of disinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal can motivate action. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, humans can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved 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 what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”