🔗 Share this article

Earth could be facing challenges, however there is hope. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to encourage the public to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

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

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the close connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally represents a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to really start thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted it was a good time to follow her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming contested where political interests are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal will inspire positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”