🔗 Share this article

The world is facing challenges, however optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage the public to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal is to be awarded in memory of the renowned British primatologist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the very special connection she had with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

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

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence thinking again, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her priority, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a subject of discussion when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that the medal will spur action. “It focuses on encouraging people to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the work of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps the youth get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about the positive actions that people are making.”