The Starmus Earth Medal in Honor of Jane Goodall Will Celebrate Those Acting to Improve the Planet.

Earth is under pressure, yet there is hope. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus will encourage individuals to make a difference.

The medal will be given in memory of the celebrated British primatologist who died this year. It will recognise those who champion life on Earth.

Honoring a Legacy

The inaugural winners will be revealed during the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October next year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had endorsed the award’s creation. “The vision behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think because of the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this significantly hampers the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must commence reconsidering, more deeply regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s not only climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Therefore, it was noted this is an opportune moment to honor 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 the way we treat the other animals with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue today involves the spread of false information. The theme of next year’s Starmus festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor can motivate positive change. “It’s about inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must focus on working all that is possible,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work shared confidence that “with guidance and when empowered, humans can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the work of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, empowers the youth become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about the positive actions that are being undertaken.”