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The world is under strain, yet there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to encourage the public to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the renowned British primatologist who passed away this year. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for the natural world.

The Medal's Framework

The first recipients are expected to be announced at the Starmus VIII festival in the Canary Islands, scheduled from 17–22 October the coming year.

According to statements that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had endorsed the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this medal, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely due to the unique connection she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and offer support for the continuation such efforts,” said a family member.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication that we created exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation is conducting an assault on knowledge. So this undermines global initiatives.”

“Realistically, the prospects aren't particularly bright therefore we must commence reconsidering, much more seriously regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the whole way that we treat the natural world.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted this is an opportune moment to follow Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her foremost concern, to change the way we treat fellow creatures with which we share the planet.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of misinformation. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that truth is becoming a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science is a science; you cannot have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The hope is that this honor can motivate action. “It focuses on motivating others to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for failure, yet we must continue striving towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in conservation work shared hope that “given direction and once enabled, humans can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the initiatives of a foundation that, among its other activities, assists the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, our daily actions are significant and it is up to us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “There is still time and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will give encouragement and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”