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Our planet could be under strain, yet optimism persists. A fresh honor from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will inspire individuals to take action.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the esteemed British primatologist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate those who advocate for life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this medal, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes carried out to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, one figure said, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally represents an assault on knowledge. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good so we have to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to honor her guiding principles. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change our relationship with wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently involves the spread of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the work of a foundation which, among its other activities, empowers young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives currently in progress.”