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Our planet could be facing challenges, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire individuals to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The idea behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. And I think due to the unique bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate globally represents a war on science. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright therefore we must really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform how we regard fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor will inspire action. “It focuses on motivating others to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the work of an institute which, among its other activities, helps the youth become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”