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Our planet might be under pressure, however there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire people to act.

The medal will honor in memory of the renowned scientist and conservationist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the close relationship she had with us.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good so we have to begin to thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change the way we treat wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of disinformation. The focus of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire action. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, among its other activities, helps young people get involved with their community, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, 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 provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”