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Earth is facing challenges, but a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire individuals to make a difference.

The medal will honor in memory of the esteemed British primatologist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the very special bond she had with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally represents a war on science. This situation significantly hampers collective action.”

“To be honest, the situation appears very good which means we need to begin to reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A major topic at present involves the spread of false information. The central topic of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests is involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection expressed optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humans can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, assists young people get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”