🔗 Share this article

Earth could be under strain, however optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire individuals to act.

The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will be given in memory of the renowned British primatologist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The first recipients are slated for announcement at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The idea behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the close relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects carried out to build an environment improved 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 – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“Realistically, things don’t look very good which means we need to begin to reconsidering, much more seriously regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way that we treat nature.”

Following an Example

Therefore, observers believe it was an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change our relationship with fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic currently was highlighted of false information. The central topic of next year’s Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth is becoming contested when politics are involved. This is a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working all that is possible,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed optimism that “given direction and when empowered, people can be conscientious guardians of Earth”, highlighting the programs of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often emphasized, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that people are making.”