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

Our planet is under pressure, however optimism persists. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus seeks to motivate the public to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name is to be awarded in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The idea of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the close connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

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

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears very good therefore we must commence thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic at present involves the spread of false information. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested when politics is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; you cannot allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor will inspire positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, empowers the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”