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The world is under pressure, but a sense of hope remains. A new award from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage individuals to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It is designed to celebrate those who protect the natural world.

Award Details

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, which will run from October 17th to 22nd next year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted for this to occur. And I think because of the very special connection she had with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to continue such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “To be truthful, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally represents a war on science. This situation undermines collective action.”

“To be honest, things don’t look particularly bright so we have to commence reflecting, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – which made her foremost concern, to transform our relationship with the other animals with which we share the planet.”

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

“We realised that factual reality is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will spur positive change. “It focuses on encouraging people to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, truly. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working the best we can,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, people are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the programs of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly emphasized, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that people are making.”