Environmental advocates remember former President Jimmy Carter as a leader who prioritized environmental stewardship and energy conservation. Carter implemented the first U.S. efficiency standards for vehicles and household appliances, created the Department of Energy, and expanded wilderness protection. He called for cuts in greenhouse gas emissions and pushed for renewable energy sources. Despite his efforts, Carter faced opposition and was unable to address climate change before his defeat to Ronald Reagan. However, his early environmental interests and commitment to conservation left a lasting impact on the environmental movement.