🔗 Share this article

Our planet might be under pressure, however there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire the public to take action.

The medal will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who passed away this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth.

The Medal's Framework

Initial honorees will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. This is likely due to the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, things don’t look very good therefore we must begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted this is a good time to emulate Goodall’s example. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard wildlife around us.”

Another key issue at present was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become contested where political interests are involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “given direction and when empowered, humanity can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, pointing to the programs of an institute which, among its other activities, empowers the next generation get involved locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”