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The world is under strain, but optimism persists. A novel accolade from the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival aims to inspire individuals to make a difference.

The medal will honor in honour of the renowned British primatologist who died this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for life on Earth.

Award Details

Initial honorees will be revealed at the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge enduring projects undertaken to build an environment improved for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival noted that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – will likely include several divisions.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Honestly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must begin to reflecting, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. And that’s not only global warming, but also the entire manner in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Consequently, it was noted it was a good time to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her priority, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today involves the spread of false information. The central topic of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a matter of debate where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that this honor can motivate action. “It’s about encouraging people to engage and to care and to strive toward these goals, really. Whether or not we’re optimistic, we have to look at doing our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for failure, but you still continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared hope that “with guidance and once enabled, humans are capable of being diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of a foundation which, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall constantly told everyone, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we choose to create,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and raise awareness about beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”