Collective Response Free of Politics Needed to Tackle Global Warming: Pope

Pope Francis called for a response that could overcome an attitude of dishonesty and promote a culture of solidarity, meeting and dialogue, and is able to demonstrate the responsibility needed to protect the planet and humanity.

MOSCOW, December 11 (Sputnik) — A collective response unrestricted by political and economic pressures is needed to overcome global warming, Pope Francis said in a letter to the Minister for Atmosphere of Peru, as the country hosts the Lima Climate Change Conference.

"The efficient fight against global warming is only possible with a responsible collective response, which overrides self-interest and certain behaviors, and develops freely without political and economic pressures," the pontiff said in the letter released by the Holy See press office on Thursday.

He called for a response that could overcome an attitude of dishonesty and promote a culture of solidarity, meeting and dialogue, and is able to demonstrate the responsibility needed to protect the planet and humanity.

The Pope added that climate change affected everyone, especially those in need and future generations. "Moreover, it is a serious ethical and moral responsibility" he said.

"The climate change we are experiencing now serves to remind the international community of the seriousness of inaction, and there is a clear and definite imperative to change," the Pope stated.

Pope Francis expressed his encouragement of the work being done and sent his sincerest wishes that the Lima Conference, as well as conferences that follow, is full of qualities such as respect, justice and action.

The United Nations Climate Change Conference is currently taking place in Lima and is set to end on Friday. It is the 20th annual conference in the series, with the main goal being a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.