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Our planet might be facing challenges, yet optimism persists. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will inspire individuals to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the close bond she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, one figure remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, observers believe this is a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that the medal can motivate action. “It focuses on encouraging people to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at working our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the programs of an institute which, among its other activities, empowers young people get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will offer support and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”