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Earth could be under strain, however optimism persists. A new award from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will encourage individuals to take action.

The medal will be given in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special relationship she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this undermines the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted this is a good time to emulate 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 change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal can motivate action. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humans can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers young people become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”