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The world might be facing challenges, but there is hope. A novel accolade from the science, music and arts festival Starmus seeks to inspire people to take action.

The medal will honor in honour of the renowned British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise those who protect the natural world.

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 next year.

It was shared that Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the award’s creation. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. And I think due to the unique connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to continue such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

A co-founder of the festival indicated that the medal – which was announced at a prestigious venue – would probably include several divisions.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall herself received of that very medal.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice said, “Honestly, it is difficult to be optimistic. Certain policies in one major nation represents an assault on knowledge. So this significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright therefore we must really start thinking again, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. And that’s not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

Following an Example

Consequently, it was noted this is a good time to honor her guiding principles. “I think that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this essential spirit that Jane embodied – which made her foremost concern, to change how we regard the other animals with which we share the planet.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of misinformation. The focus of next year’s festival will be “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become contested where political interests are involved. And it’s a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The goal remains that the medal can motivate concrete steps. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to engage and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working the best we can,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of failure, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection shared hope that “given direction and once enabled, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the work of an institute that, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and environment.

“As Jane Goodall repeatedly emphasized, the choices we make each day have an impact and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will offer support and raise awareness regarding beneficial initiatives that people are making.”