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Our planet might be under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage the public to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think because of the unique bond she had with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure said, “Honestly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“In truth, the situation appears very good so we have to begin to reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to honor 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 foremost concern, to transform the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate when politics is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal will spur positive change. “It’s about motivating others to participate and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”