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Our planet is facing challenges, yet a sense of hope remains. A new award from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage individuals to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the close relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook for Earth, one figure remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to really start reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

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

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests are involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. 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 have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of Earth”, citing the programs of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers young people get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall constantly emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”