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Our planet could be facing challenges, but optimism persists. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the esteemed British primatologist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the close bond she shared with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation represents a war on science. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright which means we need to begin to thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

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 that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat wildlife around us.”

A major topic at present is the proliferation of false information. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a subject of discussion when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, people can be diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”