As the world becomes increasingly aware of such issues as climate change and increasing pollution, Environmental Accounting is emerging as an important profession in accurately quantifying environmental performance and impacts.

Hydrographers can be assured that their data are critically important to Environmental Accounting as it is becoming one of the more important end uses. As such, hydrographers have a lot to contribute and should become involved in the developing debate.

This paper discusses the principles underlying environmental accounting in relation to the principles and culture underlying the hydrographic profession.