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Our planet might be under pressure, however there is hope. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will inspire the public to take action.

The medal will be given in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely because of the close connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “To be truthful, it's challenging to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally represents a war on science. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to begin to reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, observers believe this is an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science 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 action. “The purpose is encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions that people are making.”