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Our planet could be under strain, however there is hope. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will motivate the public to make a difference.

The medal will honor in honour of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the close relationship she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet improved 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 noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to commence thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue at present involves the spread of disinformation. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor can motivate action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of an institute that, in addition to its projects, helps young people get involved with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts currently in progress.”