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Earth could be under pressure, however optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to motivate people to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The first recipients are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

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

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a war on science. This situation really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must begin to reconsidering, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today is the proliferation of disinformation. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal will spur positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to participate and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, pointing to the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, assists young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”