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The world might be facing challenges, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to inspire the public to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died recently. It will recognise those who champion our planet's biodiversity.

Award Details

The inaugural winners 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.

Reports indicate that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a statement said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. This is likely because of the very special relationship she had with the festival.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and provide encouragement to carry on that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking award honoring scientific outreach that we created a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. Certain policies globally is conducting a war on science. So this undermines collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to really start reflecting, much more seriously about the consequences of human activity. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow Goodall’s example. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, we will be considering this essential spirit of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A major topic today was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming festival will be “the search for truth”.

“It has become apparent that truth has become a subject of discussion when politics are involved. And it’s a perilous development,” he commented. “The science of climate remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Hope and Determination

The hope remains that the medal can motivate positive change. “It’s about motivating others to get involved and to show concern and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in environmental protection expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall often told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding the positive actions that people are making.”