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Earth is under pressure, yet a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage the public to act.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled 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 vision of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the unique relationship she had with us.”

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

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “To be truthful, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to commence reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform the way we treat the other animals with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today is the proliferation of misinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become contested where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor will spur action. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly told everyone, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”