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The world is facing challenges, but optimism persists. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to motivate the public to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for life on Earth.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

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

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to really start reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe it was a good time to honor Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming 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 have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor can motivate action. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, helps young people become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”