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Our planet could be under pressure, but optimism persists. A fresh honor originating at the science, music and arts festival the Starmus festival aims to encourage people to make a difference.

The medal will be given in honour of the celebrated scientist and conservationist who died recently. It will recognise those who advocate for the natural world.

Award Details

Initial honorees will be revealed during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this award, and Starmus being entrusted to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She expressed she would like for this to occur. And I think because of the very special connection she shared with us.”

“This medal will acknowledge ongoing initiatives carried out to create a planet improved for people, animals and the environment and offer support to continue that work,” commented a relative.

Structure and Vision

A co-founder of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely include several divisions.

“It will be very much similar to the Stephen Hawking medal honoring scientific outreach established exactly 10 years ago,” it was explained. Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future of the planet, a prominent voice stated, “To be truthful, it is difficult to be optimistic. Present governance globally is conducting an assault on knowledge. This situation really cripples collective action.”

“To be honest, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to begin to reflecting, with greater urgency regarding the impact of our actions. This concern encompasses not only global warming, that’s the whole way in which we interact with our environment.”

A Call to Action

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to honor Jane Goodall's legacy. “I think that in bestowing this medal, we will be considering this core philosophy of Jane’s – that was her priority, to transform how we regard fellow creatures around us.”

A major topic today is the proliferation of false information. The focus of the upcoming festival is set as “the pursuit of factual understanding”.

“It has become apparent that factual reality has become a matter of debate when politics are involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “Climate research is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration is that the medal will spur positive change. “The purpose is motivating others to get involved and to care and to work toward these goals, really. Whether or not we feel hopeful, we have to focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, yet we must continue striving toward success.”

A family member engaged in environmental protection shared optimism that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of Earth”, pointing to the initiatives of an institute which, among its other activities, assists young people get involved locally, wildlife, and environment.

“As my late grandmother often reminded us, our daily actions have an impact and it is up to us the kind of difference we choose to create,” it was stated. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that are being undertaken.”