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Our planet might be facing challenges, however a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to motivate the public to take action.

The medal will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for life on Earth.

Award Details

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

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

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

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure said, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to be optimistic. Present governance in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to really start thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

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

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested when politics is involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor will inspire action. “It’s about motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, citing the work of an institute that, in addition to its projects, assists the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly emphasized, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions currently in progress.”