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Our planet is under strain, but there is hope. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will motivate individuals to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that protect our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the close connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes carried out to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“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 award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure said, “To be truthful, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally represents a war on science. So this really cripples global initiatives.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to commence thinking again, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to change our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today involves the spread of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor can motivate action. “It focuses on encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about the positive actions that people are making.”