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Our planet could be under pressure, however optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival will inspire individuals to make a difference.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given to pay tribute to the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who protect our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are expected to be announced during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former 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 statement said. “She said she would like for this to occur. And I think due to the close bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives undertaken to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

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

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good so we have to begin to reconsidering, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not only climate change, but also the entire manner that we treat nature.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals around us.”

Another key issue at present was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration is that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “It’s about motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humans are capable of being responsible caretakers of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, empowers young people get involved locally, animals, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding about constructive efforts currently in progress.”