A Jane Goodall Earth Medal Will Honor Those Acting to Better the World.

Our planet might be facing challenges, but there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will inspire the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run 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 award’s creation. “The concept of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the unique relationship she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “Honestly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to really start reflecting, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, observers believe this is an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change the way we treat wildlife around us.”

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

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope remains that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”