Cunningham's passion for marine conservation ignited at the age of eight when she initiated a charity project called Manatees and Dolphins, raising £87 over 18 months, and since then, she has organized numerous beach cleans and wildlife surveys.

As a trustee of the Marine Conservation Society, she was recognized as one of the 30 under-30 global environmental leaders by the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) in 2020.

Currently, Cunningham is coordinating research on marine and freshwater dolphins while also working on her first book.

Despite being told as a child that her aspirations in marine conservation were unrealistic, Cunningham has successfully spent over a decade pursuing her dream career focused on ocean preservation.

Emily Cunningham, a dedicated marine biologist from Stafford, has been awarded an MBE in the King's New Year Honours list for her significant contributions to marine conservation.

Cunningham co-founded Motion for the Ocean, the first ocean recovery declaration aimed at local governments, which has been adopted by 33 local authorities, including Stafford Borough Council, advocating for urgent ocean protection amid climate change.

Her extensive work in marine conservation spans various projects both in the UK and internationally, including notable efforts in Antarctica and the Amazon, where she has secured over £5 million in funding.

Cunningham views marine conservation as her life's passion and mission, emphasizing that being recognized for her efforts is incredibly meaningful, particularly given the challenges faced in this field.