🔗 Share this article The Jane Goodall Earth Medal Will Honor Those Acting to Better the World. The world is under strain, however optimism persists. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to motivate people to make a difference. An event related to the Starmus festival. The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died this year. It will recognise those who champion life on Earth. Honoring a Legacy Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year. According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The idea of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She said she would like this to happen. And I think due to the close bond she shared with the festival.” “This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” said a family member. Structure and Vision One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions. “The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award. Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally represents a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.” “Realistically, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to begin to reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.” A Call to Action As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to transform how we regard fellow creatures with which we share the planet.” A pressing concern at present involves the spread of disinformation. The theme of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”. “It has become apparent that factual reality has become contested where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.” Optimism and Resolve The hope is that the medal can motivate positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to engage and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.” A descendant involved in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment. “As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will offer support and raise awareness about constructive efforts currently in progress.”