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Earth might be under strain, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to motivate the public to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the very special relationship she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

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

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

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good so we have to commence thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe it was an opportune moment to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue at present was highlighted of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become contested when politics is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that the medal will inspire positive change. “It focuses on motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute that, among its other activities, helps the next generation get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will offer support and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”