🔗 Share this article

Earth might be facing challenges, yet a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to encourage the public to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the award’s creation. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the very special connection she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, things don’t look very good which means we need to commence thinking again, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard wildlife around us.”

A major topic at present involves the spread of misinformation. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a matter of debate when politics is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers young people become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”