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Our planet is under strain, but optimism persists. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will inspire people to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed 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. And I think because of the close bond she had with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance globally represents a war on science. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must commence thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe this is an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with the other animals around us.”

A major topic at present was highlighted of disinformation. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal will spur positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about the positive actions that are being undertaken.”