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The world is under pressure, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage people to take action.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the close bond she shared with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the situation appears very good so we have to commence reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become contested when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The goal remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of an institute which, among its other activities, empowers the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”