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The world might be under pressure, however optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will inspire individuals to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

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 October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special relationship she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “To be truthful, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Present governance in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers collective action.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must begin to reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change our relationship with fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor can motivate concrete steps. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists the next generation get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day are significant 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.”