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Our planet might be facing challenges, yet a sense of hope remains. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will motivate the public to act.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in memory of the esteemed British primatologist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect the natural world.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the unique relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reconsidering, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform how we regard wildlife around us.”

A major topic at present is the proliferation of false information. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The hope remains that this honor can motivate concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers the next generation become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding the positive actions currently in progress.”