Brian May and STARMUS Launch the Jane Goodall Earth Medal at Royal Society

Brian May and STARMUS Introduce the Jane Goodall Earth Medal

This week, the prestigious venue of the Royal Society in London witnessed a landmark event: the launch of the Jane Goodall Earth Medal by members of the world-renowned STARMUS festival board. Brian May, alongside co-founders including Garik Israelian and Peter Gabriel, gathered with members of Jane Goodall's family, including her grandson Merlin Van-Lawick. This momentous occasion commemorated both the introduction of an award for ecological advocacy and the ten-year anniversary of the Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication.

The new medal, to be awarded for the first time at STARMUS VIII in 2026 in Tenerife and La Palma, aims to honor individuals championing the protection of our planet and biodiversity. This step integrates STARMUS's core mission of merging science, art, and humanity, showcasing how the realms of cosmological inquiry and ecological preservation can unite.

Garik Israelian expressed the significance of this moment, saying, “Ten years ago, we launched the Stephen Hawking Medal, inspiring millions to look to the stars. Today, with Jane Goodall’s blessing, we’ll launch a medal calling for the protection of Earth.” This profound declaration not only marks a new chapter for STARMUS but also highlights the overarching goal of connecting the cosmic with the environmental.

Goodall, a long-time supporter of STARMUS, holds a unique position within the organization, contributing as an Advisory Council member and a recipient of the Stephen Hawking Medal. Her engagement continues to inspire both the festival’s attendees and the local communities, particularly in the wake of the volcanic eruptions in La Palma, where her leadership has been felt deeply.

The connection between the legacies of both Jane Goodall and Stephen Hawking was emphasized by Brian May, who noted that one seeks answers in the stars, while the other reminds us of our duty to protect the life on Earth. The decision to honor Goodall with a medal that reflects her commitment to environmental activism resonates with many, as her name now aligns with those advocating for sustainability and ecological health.

Merlin Van-Lawick, expressing gratitude for the tribute to his grandmother, remarked, “We are deeply grateful to STARMUS for deciding to honor my grandmother in this way. We fully support this initiative, and Jane has approved it as well.” This affirmation speaks volumes about the Goodall family's support for the efforts spearheaded by STARMUS as they look to inspire the next generation of environmental champions.

STARMUS VIII, set against stunning backdrops of Tenerife and La Palma, promises to be not just a festival of music and science but a vital platform for discussions on truth, environmental hand in hand with the wonders of the universe. This event will celebrate a decade of scientific exploration, creative expression, and humanistic inquiry, solidifying STARMUS's role as a beacon of hope amidst global challenges.

In summary, the Jane Goodall Earth Medal encapsulates a broader movement towards environmental stewardship, extending beyond recognition to inspire action. The partnership between STARMUS and Goodall underscores a collective commitment to addressing climate change and advocating for the sustainability of our planet. As the festival approaches, anticipation grows not only for the awarding of this medal but also for the discussions and collaborations it will foster over the coming years.

For more information about the Jane Goodall Earth Medal and STARMUS, visit www.starmus.com.