🔗 Share this article

Earth might be under strain, but optimism persists. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus will inspire the public to make a difference.

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

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the close relationship she had with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” 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.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good which means we need to begin to reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that this honor can motivate positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared optimism that “given direction and once enabled, people can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant 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 give encouragement and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”