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Our planet might be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will inspire individuals to take action.

The medal will honor in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the close relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

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

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it's challenging to be optimistic. Present governance globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good so we have to begin to thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was a good time to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of false information. The focus of the upcoming festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a subject of discussion when politics are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”