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Earth could be under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire people to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect the natural world.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the very special bond she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally represents a war on science. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good therefore we must begin to thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe it was a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of disinformation. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that the medal will spur concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the work of an institute which, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”