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The world might be under strain, but a sense of hope remains. A fresh honor originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to inspire individuals to act.

The medal is to be awarded in memory of the esteemed scientist and conservationist who died recently. It seeks to acknowledge individuals and groups that champion the natural world.

Award Details

The inaugural winners will be revealed at the Starmus VIII festival in Tenerife and La Palma, scheduled from October 17th to 22nd the coming year.

Reports indicate that Jane Goodall, a former Starmus advisory board member, had supported the medal's establishment. “The concept behind this medal, and Starmus being entrusted with organising it, was Jane's wish,” a representative said. “She said that she wanted this to happen. And I think due to the unique bond she shared with the festival.”

“This medal will recognize sustainable programmes undertaken to build an environment improved for people, animals and the environment and foster motivation to carry on such efforts,” commented a relative.

Format and Inspiration

One of the founders of the festival stated that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely have multiple categories.

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

Expressing concern on the outlook for Earth, a prominent voice said, “Frankly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. The current political climate globally represents a dismissal of evidence. So this really cripples the world’s efforts.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't very good therefore we must really start thinking again, with greater urgency about the consequences of our actions. This concern encompasses not just global warming, but also the whole way in which we interact with nature.”

A Call to Action

Therefore, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate her guiding principles. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, the focus will be on this core philosophy of Jane’s – which made her priority, to change our relationship with the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern today was highlighted of disinformation. The focus of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that truth is becoming a subject of discussion where political interests are involved. This is an alarming trend,” he commented. “Climate research is a science; you cannot allow interference by political agendas in this field.”

Hope and Determination

The aspiration remains that this honor will inspire concrete steps. “It focuses on motivating others to participate and to show concern and to work in that direction, truly. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working our utmost,” a statement concluded. “Accept the possibility of setbacks, but you still have to work towards succeeding.”

A family member involved in environmental protection expressed confidence that “given direction and when empowered, humanity are capable of being conscientious guardians of our planet”, highlighting the programs of an institute that, among its other activities, assists young people get involved with their community, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As Jane Goodall often reminded us, our daily actions make a difference and the responsibility lies with us the kind of difference we make,” he said. “It is not too late and this medal will provide inspiration and increase understanding regarding constructive efforts that people are making.”