🔗 Share this article

Earth could be under strain, yet there is hope. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will motivate individuals to act.

The medal is to be awarded to pay tribute to the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who champion 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.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special connection she had with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, one figure remarked, “To be truthful, it is difficult to be optimistic. The current political climate globally is conducting a war on science. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must begin to reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, observers believe this is a good time to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

A pressing concern at present was highlighted of disinformation. The central topic of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that this honor can motivate action. “It’s about inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to work in that direction, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on doing the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in conservation work shared confidence that “given direction and once enabled, humans can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, pointing to the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, helps the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day have an impact 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 offer support and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”