President Joe Biden was officially inaugurated January 20, commencing his four year term as the 46th president of the United States. Biden signed numerous executive orders, memorandums and proclamations hours after taking the oath of office.

“We’ll press forward with speed and urgency, for we have much to do in this winter of peril and significant possibilities,” said Biden during his inaugural address. “Much to repair. Much to restore. Much to heal. Much to build, and much to gain.”

Biden signed a total of 17 executive actions to address his top policy priorities such as the COVID-19 crisis, environmental issues, and racial justice. 

“I think some of the things we’re going to be doing are going to be bold and vital, and there’s no time to start like today,” said Biden. 

President Biden signed three executive orders in the presence of reporters. These orders included mandating masks on federal property, increasing support for underserved communities, and rejoining the Paris climate agreement—an international treaty signed by 196 parties to reduce climate change and its impact, which former President Donald Trump left in 2017.

“I thought there’s no time to wait. Get to work immediately,” said Biden.

The new president’s other executive actions included halting the construction of the wall along the southern U.S. border, ending the travel ban affecting nations with Muslim majorities, and reversing Trump’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization. While President Biden already made many efforts in his first 24 hours to advance his agenda, this is just the beginning of his next four years as the President of the United States.

“We have a long way to go,” said Biden, stating that he’ll need to work with Congress on top priorities.