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Our planet is under pressure, however there is hope. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire people to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

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

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure said, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation represents a war on science. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good so we have to commence thinking again, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, observers believe it was a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A major topic currently is the proliferation of false information. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal will inspire positive change. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, empowers the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will offer support and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives that people are making.”