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The world might be under pressure, yet optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus aims to inspire the public to make a difference.

The medal will be given to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who died this year. It is designed to celebrate those who champion the natural world.

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.

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the unique bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably 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 was an honoree of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. Present governance in one major nation is conducting a war on science. So this really cripples collective action.”

“Realistically, the situation appears very good which means we need to begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not just climate change, that’s the whole way that we treat our environment.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “It is believed that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of false information. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal can motivate action. “The purpose is encouraging people to engage and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must focus on working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute that, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly reminded us, 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 the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”