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Earth might be facing challenges, yet there is hope. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will encourage the public to take action.

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

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the award’s creation. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the close relationship she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize enduring projects undertaken to make our world a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely encompass various fields.

“The intent is for it to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts on the outlook of the planet, one figure remarked, “Honestly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Certain policies in one major nation represents a war on science. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“To be honest, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to really start thinking again, more deeply about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to transform the way we treat fellow creatures around us.”

Another key issue currently is the proliferation of misinformation. The central topic of the upcoming Starmus festival will be “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth has become contested when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal will spur action. “It focuses on inspiring individuals to participate and to show concern and to strive in that direction, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we must look at working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A family member involved in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humans can be responsible caretakers of our planet”, citing the programs of a foundation which, among its other activities, helps the next generation get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will give encouragement and raise awareness about the positive actions that people are making.”