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Earth might be under strain, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage individuals to make a difference.

The medal will be given in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth.

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the unique connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

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

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure said, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently is the proliferation of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal will inspire action. “It’s about encouraging people to participate and to care and to work in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, pointing to the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, empowers young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”