🔗 Share this article

The world could be under pressure, however optimism persists. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will encourage individuals to take action.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will honor in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died this year. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The vision behind this award, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the close relationship she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus noted that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't very good which means we need to commence reconsidering, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

Following an Example

Therefore, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding this medal, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue today was highlighted of disinformation. The theme of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must focus on working all that is possible,” it was added. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A family member involved in conservation work shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, in addition to its projects, assists young people become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother often emphasized, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” he said. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”