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Our planet could be under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to encourage people to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in honour of the renowned British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the unique relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight enduring projects carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

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

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation represents a war on science. So this significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to begin to reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of misinformation. The focus of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, empowers young people get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”