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Earth could be facing challenges, but there is hope. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will inspire people to take action.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The first recipients will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

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

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a war on science. This situation significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must begin to reconsidering, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

Another key issue at present is the proliferation of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the programs of an institute that, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”