Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called on world leaders, faith communities and international institutions to address the climate crisis by tackling the deeper social and economic problems that lie behind it, saying environmental challenges cannot be solved through technology alone.
In a video message to the Tenth Austrian World Summit in Vienna on Tuesday, the Pope said the environmental crisis is not a separate issue but part of a much wider social and economic crisis affecting people around the world.
The annual summit, organised by the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative founded by actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, brings together political leaders, experts and activists to discuss solutions to climate change.
Pope Leo said climate change, poverty, inequality and human rights are closely connected. He stressed that efforts to protect the environment will not succeed unless governments also address issues such as social justice, solidarity and the dignity of every human person.
He noted that the poorest and most vulnerable communities are often the ones most affected by environmental degradation, despite contributing the least to the problem. For this reason, he said climate policies must place the needs of these communities at the centre of decision making.
Pope linked his message to themes outlined in his recent encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, which focuses on protecting human dignity in an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid technological change. He argued that environmental protection and social justice must go hand in hand.
Faith, hope and love were the three key themes highlighted in the Pope's message.
Speaking about faith, Pope Leo said believers have a special responsibility to care for creation because they see the world as a gift from God. He added that many religious traditions share a common respect for life and nature, making faith communities important partners in environmental action.
On hope, Pope acknowledged growing fears about climate change, resource depletion and declining living conditions in many parts of the world. He said fear often prevents governments from making necessary changes, particularly when those changes involve economic uncertainty or political risks.
However, he encouraged leaders not to give in to pessimism, arguing that hope can inspire meaningful action and international cooperation. He expressed confidence that progress made through global climate negotiations can lead to societies that place the common good above profit and promote solidarity and human dignity.
Pope also called on wealthier countries to provide greater financial support to developing nations and advocated for reforms to the international financial system that would place people before economic interests.
Turning to the theme of love, Pope Leo spoke about the need for a culture of care that extends beyond personal relationships into public life. He said political, economic and cultural decisions should be guided by concern for others and for future generations.
His remarks continue a strong environmental focus that has become increasingly visible during his papacy. In previous statements, Pope Leo has warned about the dangers of climate change and called for stronger international action to protect both people and the planet.
Analysts say the latest message reinforces the Vatican's position that climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a moral, social and economic challenge that requires cooperation across nations, sectors and faith traditions.
Pope concluded by expressing hope that participants at the summit would help promote a culture of care and contribute to building what he described as a civilisation of love.