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Our planet is under pressure, but a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage individuals to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the very special relationship she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

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

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must really start reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that this honor will spur concrete steps. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the initiatives of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists the youth become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”