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The world could be under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage individuals to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to be optimistic. The current political climate globally represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright therefore we must commence thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change our relationship with the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present is the proliferation of false information. The theme of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will spur action. “It focuses on motivating others to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”