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The world could be under strain, but optimism persists. A new award originating at the interdisciplinary festival Starmus seeks to encourage people to act.

The medal will honor to pay tribute to the renowned British primatologist who passed away recently. It will recognise individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

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

Reports indicate that Goodall, a former member of the festival's board, had backed the medal's establishment. “The idea behind this award, and the festival being tasked with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like this to happen. This is likely because of the very special connection she had with us.”

“This medal aims to highlight sustainable programmes undertaken to make our world a better place for all living beings and ecosystems and offer support for the continuation that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus indicated that the medal – unveiled at a prestigious venue – would probably encompass various fields.

“It will be modeled after the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established exactly 10 years ago,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Expressing concern on the outlook of the planet, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it is difficult to feel hopeful. The current political climate in one major nation represents a war on science. This situation undermines the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the situation appears very good which means we need to really start reconsidering, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only climate change, that’s the whole way in which we interact with the natural world.”

Inspiring Change

Consequently, observers believe it was an opportune moment to honor Goodall’s example. “It is believed that when we’re awarding the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to change the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of misinformation. The theme of next year’s festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“We realised that truth has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. This is a very dangerous thing,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; it is impossible to allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The hope is that the medal will inspire concrete steps. “The purpose is encouraging people to participate and to show concern and to strive toward these goals, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work to achieve positive outcomes.”

A descendant engaged in conservation work expressed confidence that “with guidance and once enabled, humans can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the work of a foundation that, among its other activities, empowers young people get involved locally, animals, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly reminded us, the choices we make each day are significant and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” he said. “There is still time and this medal will offer support and increase understanding about the positive actions that people are making.”