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The world might be under strain, however a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to encourage individuals to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in honour of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the close relationship she had with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

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

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Present governance globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears very good therefore we must commence reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe it was a good time to honor her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to transform how we regard wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern at present involves the spread of false information. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become contested when politics is involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal will spur concrete steps. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, people are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, helps young people become engaged with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts currently in progress.”