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Earth might be under pressure, but a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will inspire the public to act.

The medal will honor in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the very special bond she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

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

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence thinking again, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Goodall’s example. “I think 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 wildlife around us.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared hope that “given direction and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, highlighting the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps young people get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about constructive efforts currently in progress.”