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The world could be under pressure, however there is hope. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will encourage people to make a difference.

The medal will honor in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, is Jane’s,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it’s very hard to feel hopeful. Present governance globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to begin to reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not just climate change, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern currently was highlighted of false information. The focus of the upcoming festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The goal is that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to get involved and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to focus on doing all that is possible,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, pointing to the programs of an institute which, among its other activities, assists young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts currently in progress.”