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The world might be facing challenges, yet optimism persists. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate people to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that protect life on Earth.

Award Details

Initial honorees are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique bond she shared with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to maintain optimism. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a war on science. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must begin to reconsidering, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern today is the proliferation of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor will spur action. “The purpose is encouraging people to participate and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on working the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the work of an institute that, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will offer support and raise awareness about constructive efforts that people are making.”