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Earth might be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to motivate people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the close connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. Present governance globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to commence thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change our relationship with wildlife around us.”

A major topic today involves the spread of misinformation. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth has become contested where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire action. “It’s about motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, highlighting the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”