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Our planet might be under strain, but optimism persists. A new award from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage individuals to take action.

The medal will be given in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that protect our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the unique connection she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must commence thinking again, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to emulate 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 change how we regard fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic at present is the proliferation of misinformation. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor will spur action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that people are making.”