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The world is under pressure, however optimism persists. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will encourage the public to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will be given to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who died recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are slated for announcement at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The vision behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think due to the close bond she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

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

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. This situation significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must really start reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

A major topic today is the proliferation of misinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal can motivate positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared optimism that “given direction and once enabled, humans can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the initiatives of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that people are making.”