The Jane Goodall Earth Medal Will Recognise Individuals Working to Improve the Planet.

Our planet is under strain, yet a sense of hope remains. A new award originating at the science, music and arts festival Starmus aims to motivate people to take action.

The medal will honor in honour of the celebrated British primatologist who passed away recently. It seeks to acknowledge those who advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners 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 Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, originated with Jane,” a representative said. “Her desire was that she wanted this to happen. And I think because of the close relationship she shared with us.”

“The Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal aims to highlight enduring projects undertaken to build an environment a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation for the continuation such efforts,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of Starmus indicated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

“The intent is for it to be modeled after the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established a decade past,” it was explained. Jane Goodall herself received of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “Honestly, it’s very hard to maintain optimism. The current political climate in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must really start reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. And that’s 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 it was an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to transform how we regard wildlife with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern at present involves the spread of misinformation. The theme of the upcoming Starmus festival is set as “the search for truth”.

“There is a recognition that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. This is a perilous development,” it was said. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “It’s about inspiring individuals 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. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A descendant involved in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humanity can be responsible caretakers of Earth”, citing the work of a foundation that, among its other activities, helps the youth get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly told everyone, our daily actions are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding beneficial initiatives that are being undertaken.”