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The world could be under strain, but optimism persists. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will inspire the public to take action.

The medal is to be awarded in honour of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” 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.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright therefore we must commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

As a result, observers believe this is an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present was highlighted of false information. The theme of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that factual reality has become a subject of discussion when politics is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that the medal can motivate action. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to care and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, people are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, highlighting the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, helps the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will offer support and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”