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The world could be under pressure, however a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire people to make a difference.

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

Award Details

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

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, is Jane’s,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the unique connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

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

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, things don’t look very good so we have to begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat our environment.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, the focus will be on this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present was highlighted of false information. The theme of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor can motivate action. “It’s about encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we must look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, people are capable of being responsible caretakers of our planet”, highlighting the programs of an institute that, in addition to its projects, helps young people become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly told everyone, our daily actions have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”