Michael Regan, President Joe Bidens pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency , told lawmakers Wednesday that he would move swiftly to rein in planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions, repair the damage that the Trump administration inflicted at the federal agency and put environmental justice communities at the heart of the agencys efforts.

Regan, 44, currently North Carolinas top environmental regulator, testified at a confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. If confirmed, Regan would make history as the first Black man to lead the agency. And he would inherit an agency that under President Donald Trump was run by a former coal lobbyist and dismantled dozens of clean air, water and public health safeguards.

Our priorities for the environment are clear, Regan told the committee. We will restore the role of science and transparency at EPA. Will will support the dedicated and talented career officials. We will move with a sense of urgency on climate change. And we will stand up for environmental justice and equity.

Regan is likely headed for a speedy confirmation. He received glowing introductions from North Carolinas two Republican senators, Thom Tillis and Richard Burr. Burr called Regan extremely qualified and said he would balance environmental stewardship with the needs of rural communities.

If you want to address complex challenges, you must first be able to see them from all sides and you must be willing to put yourself in other peoples shoes, Regan said.