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The world is under pressure, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival will encourage individuals to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a Starmus advisory board member, had backed the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She expressed that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the unique connection she had with the festival.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight enduring projects carried out to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate globally represents an assault on knowledge. This situation really cripples global initiatives.”

“Realistically, things don’t look very good which means we need to begin to thinking again, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Therefore, it was noted this is a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to transform how we regard wildlife with which we share the planet.”

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

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming contested where political interests is involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire positive change. “It’s about motivating others to engage and to care and to work in that direction, truly. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we must look at doing our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, citing the work of an institute which, among its other activities, empowers the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”