Emma Hardy, UK Minister for Water and Flooding highlights Importance of Donor Support for Ocean Accounts

Emma Hardy was appointed Minister for Water and Flooding at the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) on 9 July 2024, following her election as Member of Parliament for Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice earlier that same month.

With a background in public service and a longstanding commitment to environmental and community issues, Minister Hardy brings a strong focus on climate resilience, sustainable water management, and the protection of marine ecosystems. Her portfolio includes oversight of national water resources, flood preparedness, and coastal management – areas closely aligned with the goals of ocean accounting and data-driven environmental governance.

At the UNOC3 side event “Delivering on the 2030 Sustainable Ocean Economy: Pledge to Develop Ocean Accounts by 2030”, Minister Hardy will contribute to the session “Why Support Ocean Accounts: A Perspective from a Donor”, sharing the UK’s vision for supporting ocean data initiatives and strengthening international collaboration to deliver on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.