The Jane Goodall Earth Medal to Celebrate Those Working to Better the Planet.

The world is facing challenges, yet there is hope. A novel accolade originating at the interdisciplinary festival the Starmus festival seeks to encourage people to make a difference.

This new Earth medal bearing Jane Goodall's name will honor in honour of the esteemed British primatologist who passed away this year. It is designed to celebrate individuals and groups that advocate for our planet's biodiversity.

The Medal's Framework

The inaugural winners are slated for announcement during the upcoming Starmus event in Tenerife and La Palma, which will run from 17–22 October next year.

It was shared that Jane Goodall, who was a member of the festival's board, had supported the medal's establishment. “The vision of having this medal, and the festival being tasked to oversee it, was Jane's wish,” a statement said. “Her desire was she would like for this to occur. This is likely due to the very special bond she shared with us.”

“This medal will recognize ongoing initiatives carried out to make our world improved for all living beings and ecosystems and foster motivation to continue that work,” said a family member.

Structure and Vision

One of the founders of Starmus noted that the medal – which was announced at a scientific institution – will likely encompass various fields.

“It’s going to be inspired by the Stephen Hawking medal for science communication established a decade past,” he explained. Jane Goodall was a recipient of that award.

Sharing thoughts about the future for Earth, a prominent voice remarked, “Frankly, it's challenging to feel hopeful. Present governance in one major nation represents a dismissal of evidence. This situation undermines global initiatives.”

“In truth, the prospects aren't particularly bright which means we need to begin to reflecting, more deeply regarding the impact of human activity. This concern encompasses not just global warming, that’s the entire manner in which we interact with our environment.”

Inspiring Change

As a result, it was noted it was an opportune moment to emulate Jane Goodall's legacy. “It is believed that in bestowing the prize, we will be considering this core philosophy that Jane embodied – that was her foremost concern, to transform the way we treat the other animals around us.”

A pressing concern at present is the proliferation of misinformation. The focus of next year’s festival will be “the search for truth”.

“We realised that factual reality has become a subject of discussion where political interests is involved. And it’s an alarming trend,” it was said. “The climate science remains a scientific discipline; it is impossible to have any influence by political agendas in this field.”

Optimism and Resolve

The aspiration remains that this honor will spur positive change. “The purpose is inspiring individuals to get involved and to care and to strive in that direction, really. Regardless of if we’re optimistic, we have to focus on working the best we can,” it was added. “Be prepared for setbacks, but you still have to work toward success.”

A descendant involved in environmental protection expressed hope that “with guidance and when empowered, humanity can be diligent stewards of Earth”, highlighting the initiatives of an institute which, in addition to its projects, helps the next generation become engaged locally, wildlife, and the natural world.

“As my late grandmother repeatedly told everyone, the choices we make each day make a difference and it is up to us the kind of difference we make,” it was stated. “It is not too late and the Starmus Jane Goodall Earth medal will offer support and increase understanding about constructive efforts that people are making.”