19 ironic that the costs of allowing developing countries access to technology transfer, technical assistance and financial resources (172) is low in comparison to the risks of climate change (172). The Pope calls for enforceable international agreements (173) which respect the sovereignty of all states, rather than the fragmented and powerless regulatory mechanisms which exist at present, for instance in the area of marine waste and the protection of the open seas (174). This section ends with a plea for stronger and more efficiently organised international institutions, with functionaries who are appointed fairly by agreement among national governments, and empowered to impose sanctions (175), recalling the social teaching of the Church as affirmed by Benedict XVI and, before him, Blessed John XXIII in their respective arguments for a true world political authority (175) and a growth in the importance of diplomacy...which can anticipate serious problems affecting us all (175). II Dialogue for New National and Local Policies What is needed is a greater sense of responsibility, a readiness to protect others, a spirit of creativity and a deep love for the land Questions regarding environmental and economic issues call for greater attention to policies on the national and local levels (176). It is not good enough for governments and institutions simply to avoid bad practice (177); new solutions, initiatives and creativity must be actively promoted. Unfortunately, the myopia of power politics delays the inclusion of a farsighted environmental agenda (178) because anything that affects levels of consumption could lead to risks regarding foreign investment, and governments are reluctant to upset the public (178). Holding onto positions of power, however, is ineffective and counterproductive in terms of upholding high principles and the long-term common good (178). In many places it is local individuals and groups which are making a difference, instilling a greater sense of responsibility, a strong sense of community, a readiness to protect others, a spirit of creativity and a deep love for the land (179). More and more people are becoming concerned about what they are leaving behind for their children and grandchildren, and these values are deeply rooted in indigenous peoples (179). The Pope reminds us that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for countries and regions but, at the same time, on the national and local levels, much still needs to be done, such as promoting ways of conserving energy (180) where production, raw materials, transport, building, maintenance, energy consumption, recycling, the protection of species and agriculture are concerned. In defending and preserving local producers and ecosystems, he urgently pleads, “Truly, much can be done!” (180) Working against this are constant changes to governments, because in the case for lasting change, continuity is essential (181). For this reason he urges us to maintain pressure on our political representatives to take up these responsibilities and the costs they entail...and leave behind a testimony of selfless responsibility (181).
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