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The world might be under strain, however optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded in honour of the renowned British primatologist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision of having this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the very special bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

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

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice said, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance globally represents an assault on knowledge. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must begin to thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change how we regard fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently involves the spread of false information. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that the medal will spur concrete steps. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, humans can be diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions that are being undertaken.”