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The world might be under strain, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the close relationship she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a war on science. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must commence thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way 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 core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

A major topic today involves the spread of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope remains that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged with their community, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”