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Our planet might be under pressure, yet there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage individuals to take action.

The medal will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

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

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think because of the very special relationship she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally represents a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look very good therefore we must begin to reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is an opportune moment to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of disinformation. The focus of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must focus on doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the work of an institute which, in addition to its projects, empowers young people get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly 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 this medal will offer support and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”