As America prepares for a six-day state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has reflected on Carter’s enduring impact, particularly in the realm of global health and environmental advocacy. “He and Rosalynn were among my first and most inspiring role models in global health,” Gates remarked, emphasizing Carter’s pivotal role in shaping the early days of the Gates Foundation. Gates also acknowledged Carter’s friendship with his late father, which deepened his appreciation for Carter’s commitment to public health and social justice.
Carter’s influence extended beyond health, with a significant role in saving America’s space shuttle program. He also pioneered the installation of solar panels on the White. Despite struggling to implement environmental policies such as fuel-efficiency standards and renewable energy research, Carter’s vision laid the groundwork for future climate action. His efforts to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and address global warming through the White House Council on Environmental Quality set a precedent that resonated for decades. Although he faced political resistance, Carter’s legacy remains a beacon of hope for those striving to combat climate change today.
Environmentalists also laud Carter’s legacy, citing his early advocacy for climate action and renewable energy. His leadership in the 1970s and 1980s marked a significant shift in federal policy, as he pushed for measures to reduce oil dependency and promote cleaner energy sources. The historian Kai Bird notes that after struggling to pass a tax on gas-guzzling cars, Carter wrote in his diary, “The influence of the oil and gas industry is unbelievable, and it’s impossible to arouse the public to protect themselves.” This sentiment highlights the challenges Carter faced in implementing his environmental vision, even as it laid the foundation for today’s climate initiatives.
The impact of Carter’s policies is evident in the global climate agreements that followed, including the widely accepted goal to limit global temperature increases to 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. While Carter’s primary focus was on reducing oil imports, his foresight in addressing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting solar technology has proven to be a vital part of the climate conversation. Environmentalists argue that Carter’s story is a testament to the importance of perseverance in the face of political and economic resistance, offering inspiration for current efforts to combat climate change.
In addition to his environmental and health contributions, Carter’s personal relationships and diplomatic efforts have left a lasting impression. The iconic photograph of him, Nelson Mandela, and Gates’ father in South Africa symbolizes a deeper connection between global leaders and their shared commitment to public health. Carter’s confrontation with former South African President Thabo Mbeki over the HIV/AIDS crisis illustrates his unwavering dedication to social justice. This moment, where Carter nearly engaged in a physical altercation with Mbeki, underscores the intensity of his convictions and the challenges of advocating for marginalized communities.
As Carter’s state funeral unfolds, his legacy is being re-examined and celebrated by a wide array of individuals and organizations. Bill Gates and environmentalists alike acknowledge the importance of Carter’s contributions in shaping modern global health and environmental policies. The hope is that Carter’s story will continue to inspire future generations to pursue meaningful change, reflecting his belief that “we need to see more changes to survive.” His impact on global health, environmental policy, and social justice remains a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of a former U.S. president who made a lasting difference.