The Starmus Earth Medal in Honor of Jane Goodall to Honor Those Acting to Improve the Planet.

The world is under strain, however optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to encourage people to take action.

The medal will be given to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect the natural world.

Award Details

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the close relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance globally represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to commence thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today involves the spread of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will spur concrete steps. “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 must look at doing the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, humans can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that people are making.”