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Our planet might be under strain, however there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

Award Details

The first recipients will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the very special connection she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, that’s the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

Another key issue today was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that the medal will spur positive change. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to participate and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”