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The world might be facing challenges, however there is hope. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus will motivate individuals to take action.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who passed away this year. It will recognise those who protect our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the very special relationship she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

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

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

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines collective action.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to begin to reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the entire manner that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today is the proliferation of misinformation. The focus of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming contested when politics is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor will spur positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of an institute which, in addition to its projects, assists young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference 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 raise awareness regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”