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Earth might be under pressure, however there is hope. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire individuals to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded in honour of the renowned British primatologist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

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

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the unique bond she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally is conducting a war on science. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, things don’t look particularly bright therefore we must commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, that’s the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present is the proliferation of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal will spur action. “The purpose is motivating others to engage and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, citing the programs of an institute that, in addition to its projects, assists young people get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will offer support and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”