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Our planet is facing challenges, but there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate the public to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It will recognise those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to be optimistic. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting a war on science. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must commence reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of false information. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming contested where political interests are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that the medal can motivate positive change. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and once enabled, people are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”