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The world might be facing challenges, however there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire the public to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in honour of the renowned British primatologist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright so we have to commence reflecting, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change our relationship with wildlife around us.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of false information. The focus of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at working all that is possible,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation which, among its other activities, empowers young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that people are making.”