US President-elect Donald Trump has chosen former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin to head the Environmental Protection Agency.

Trump said in a statement on Monday that Zeldin "will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses." He said Zeldin will at the same time maintain "the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet."

Trump has been critical of the climate policies prioritized under President Joe Biden's administration. Biden has tightened regulations of exhaust gas emissions from vehicles. Mining and production of oil and natural gas were also regulated. Trump has maintained that he will quickly ease restrictions after he takes office.

Zeldin wrote on social media that it is an honor to join Trump's Cabinet. He said, "We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs."

Trump started choosing supporters to fill key posts in his administration less than one week after the election and is accelerating his transition.