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Earth might be facing challenges, however optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to encourage the public to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the unique bond she shared with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably have multiple categories.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “To be truthful, it's challenging to be optimistic. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to begin to thinking again, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, observers believe this is a good time to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today involves the spread of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal will inspire positive change. “The purpose is encouraging people to engage and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about the positive actions that people are making.”