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Our planet could be facing challenges, but optimism persists. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to motivate the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given in memory of the esteemed British primatologist who died this year. It will recognise those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

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

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must commence reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted this is an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern at present is the proliferation of false information. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become contested when politics is involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “The purpose is motivating others to engage and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps young people become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about the positive actions currently in progress.”