As more enlightened beings emerge on this earth, they will bring the level of consciousness up. You can read more about it here:
June Marshall's answer to Is the horrific state of the world part of the Universe's innate hostility, manifested in society?
Every person who behaves in a responsible, loving, tolerant way is bringing the level of consciousness up. Anyone who acts out of self-righteous judgment, violence, lack of compassion is potentially dragging the consciousness of the planet down. There are whole pockets of this earth right now that operate under fear, oppression, and tyranny. Yet the beings, such as the Dalai Lama, who continue to keep their consciousness attuned to the holy aspects of the Universe are bringing us into a new era.