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The world is under strain, however a sense of hope remains. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will motivate individuals to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor to pay tribute to the esteemed British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Honoring a Legacy

Initial honorees are slated for announcement at the upcoming Starmus event in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted for this to occur. And I think due to the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world improved 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 – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably have multiple categories.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, one figure stated, “Frankly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright so we have to really start reflecting, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to transform our relationship with wildlife around us.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that this honor can motivate positive change. “It’s about encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work toward success.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives that people are making.”