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The world could be under strain, but a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage people 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 protect our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept of having this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. And I think due to the very special connection she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival stated 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 honoring scientific outreach established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. The current political climate globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, but also the entire manner that we treat the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to honor her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of false information. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth has become contested where political interests is involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal is that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must focus on doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared hope that “given direction and once enabled, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, assists the youth become engaged locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”