Sunayana Bhatnagar

Sunayana Bhatnagar is a Law Fellow at HRI, where she works with Kristina Alexander in the Marine Policy and Law program.

Sunayana’s work focuses on legal and policy frameworks that advance ocean health and marine conservation in the Gulf. She aims to leverage her legal training to strengthen ocean governance and marine protection globally.

At Stanford Law School, Sunayana’s research centered on ocean governance, including deep seabed mining, the emerging global plastic pollution treaty, and nature-based solutions for coastal resilience. This work informs her current focus on how international and domestic legal regimes can better support sustainable and equitable use of marine resources.

Before joining HRI, Sunayana worked with the International Solar Alliance, supporting the development of solar energy-friendly regulations across member countries. She previously practiced as an environmental lawyer in India and, prior to that, as a corporate attorney with substantial contracting and regulatory experience.

Outside of work, Sunayana enjoys scuba diving, exploring new restaurants, and experimenting in the kitchen.