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Earth could be facing challenges, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire people to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

Award Details

Initial honorees are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the close bond she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Present governance globally represents a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to commence reconsidering, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today was highlighted of false information. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality has become contested where political interests is involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “It’s about motivating others to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to look at working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, pointing to the work of an institute that, among its other activities, helps young people get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about the positive actions currently in progress.”