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Earth could be under strain, however a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage people to take action.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It will recognise those who protect life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the close connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes 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 stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally is conducting a war on science. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must really start reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

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

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will inspire action. “It focuses on encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about the positive actions currently in progress.”