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Our planet could be under strain, but optimism persists. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise those who advocate for the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at 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 vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will inspire positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the work of an institute that, among its other activities, assists young people get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”