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The world could be under strain, but there is hope. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus will motivate individuals to make a difference.

The medal is to be awarded 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

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

According to statements that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The idea of having this award, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “She said she would like this to happen. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to build an environment a better place for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation for the continuation that work,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival indicated that the medal – unveiled at a scientific institution – would probably include several divisions.

“It’s going to be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking award for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Goodall was an honoree of that award.

Expressing concern about the future for Earth, one figure stated, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. Present governance globally is conducting a dismissal of evidence. This situation significantly hampers collective action.”

“In truth, the situation appears particularly bright which means we need to begin to reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not only climate change, but also the entire manner in which we interact with the natural world.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, observers believe it was a good time to follow Goodall’s example. “I think that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

Another key issue currently involves the spread of false information. The theme of next year’s Starmus 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 an alarming trend,” he commented. “The science of climate is a science; you cannot allow interference from politics in climate science.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that this honor will inspire action. “The purpose is motivating others to engage and to show concern and to strive in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we feel hopeful, we must look at working our utmost,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, yet we must have to work toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be conscientious guardians of our planet”, pointing to the work of an institute which, among its other activities, helps the next generation become engaged with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother constantly reminded us, the choices we make each day are significant and the responsibility lies with us what type of impact we make,” he said. “We still have an opportunity and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding the positive actions that are being undertaken.”