My cousin Tony Edwards, who has died aged 77 of cancer, dedicated 50 years to the environmental and water sectors in Yorkshire and the Humber. He engaged with many academic research projects, seeking to ensure that they kept their eyes on the practical application of their research. Until 2022, he lectured part-time on environmental management at the University of Hull, inspiring students from across the industry to make a positive difference. Through his writing and speaking he promoted eco-engineering and nature-based solutions, including managed realignment (where a flood defence embankment is moved back from its original position to create wetlands) or “set-back”, and at a time when the terms and approach were very new.

Born in Hawkhurst, Kent, to Rene (nee Martin) and Chas Edwards, who owned a gents’ outfitters in Cranbrook, Tony was a boarder at Bethany school, in Goudhurst, and graduated from King’s College London with a degree in geography in 1968; he then did a PhD in environmental science at the University of East Anglia. From 1974 he worked with the Yorkshire Water Authority on water quality and water resources planning, becoming manager for much of Yorkshire for the new National Rivers Authority. He later became Ridings area manager for the Environment Agency, where he oversaw pollution regulation, water resources and flood risk management for 4 million people across Yorkshire.

As Humber strategies manager for the Environment Agency – a post he took up in 1999 – Tony coordinated environmental sustainability across the estuary. He was a main driver behind a series of strategic plans, helping to balance the industry and conservation and serving as a member of the region’s Climate Change Group.

In the 1990s, Tony became an enthusiastic member of a project to increase employability in environmental science graduates. He understood the skills they required because he knew the challenges of the sector and what is expected of public authorities. Lifelong friendships were formed through the project.

As CEO then company secretary (2004-11) of what became the Humber Nature Partnership, he worked tirelessly with the industry, local authorities and environmental organisations to protect and enhance the Humber natural environment, and afterwards became an active director.

He loved walking in West Yorkshire, birdwatching, travel, opera and art galleries, and sending friends Guardian articles (including those he disagreed with). His wisdom, warmth and integrity touched many lives, and his legacy will continue through the landscapes he helped to protect and the countless people he inspired.

Tony is survived by his cousins, Phil, John and me.