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The world might be under strain, however optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will inspire the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely due to the close connection she had with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, things don’t look very good so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe this is an opportune moment to emulate Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue today was highlighted of false information. The focus of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, people can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps young people get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”