As a company committed to ethical business practices and sustainability, it is crucial that we set a high standard for ourselves and our stakeholders. Our Code of Conduct outlines the expectations we have for our employees, partners, and affiliates, ensuring that we all operate with integrity, respect, and accountability.
The policy is designed to provide clear guidelines on the behaviors and practices that align with our values and legal obligations. It serves as a framework for making ethical decisions and promotes a culture of transparency, fairness, and responsibility.
Company's Code of Conduct
As a company dedicated to advancing sustainability and ethical business practices, we believe that our success is not just measured by financial performance but also by the positive impact we have on society and the environment. We encourage everyone at Sustain Right to read our Code of Conduct carefully and to embody its principles in their work.
1. Mission Critical Behaviours & Core Values
At Sustain Right, our mission is to drive sustainability and ethical business practices globally. Our core values are the foundation of our culture and guide our actions and decisions. We expect all employees to embody these values in their daily work:
- Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency. We are committed to doing the right thing, even when it is difficult, and we expect the same from our partners and stakeholders.
- Excellence: We strive for excellence in everything we do. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality results and continuously improving our processes and services.
- Innovation: We encourage creativity and innovation, seeking out new and better ways to achieve our goals. We are open to change and embrace new ideas that drive progress.
- Respect: We value diversity and treat everyone with dignity and respect. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our organisation and enhance our ability to serve our clients and communities.
- Sustainability: We are committed to environmental responsibility and long-term thinking. We integrate sustainable practices into our business operations and encourage our clients and partners to do the same.
2. Highest Ethical Behaviour
We are committed to conducting our business with the highest ethical standards. This commitment extends to all aspects of our operations, from our relationships with clients and partners to our internal practices.
a. Conflict of Interests
Employees must avoid any situation that could create or appear to create a conflict between their personal interests and the interests of Sustain Right. Employees are required to disclose any potential conflicts to their manager or the compliance officer promptly.
b. Company Assets
Protecting and properly utilising company assets is the responsibility of every employee. Employees must use these assets only for legitimate business purposes and safeguard them against loss, theft, misuse, and damage.
c. Bribery
Sustain Right strictly prohibits bribery and corruption in any form. This includes offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to influence the actions of an individual or organisation.
d. Dealing with Governments
We conduct our dealings with government officials and entities with the highest level of integrity and transparency. All interactions must comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those governing lobbying, procurement, and public disclosure.
e. Competition
We are committed to fair competition and do not engage in practices that distort the competitive landscape. Employees must comply with all antitrust and competition laws and avoid activities such as price-fixing, market allocation, and bid-rigging.
f. Business Across Borders
In our global operations, we respect and comply with the laws and regulations of the countries in which we operate. This includes adhering to international trade laws, export controls, and economic sanctions.
g. Confidentiality
Protecting confidential information is vital to our business success. Employees must not disclose or misuse proprietary, confidential, or sensitive information about Sustain Right, our clients, or our partners.
h. Data Protection and Data Security
We are committed to protecting the personal and business data entrusted to us. Employees must adhere to all applicable data protection laws and company policies related to data security.
i. Keeping Records and Financial Integrity
Accurate and complete record-keeping is essential to our business integrity. Employees are responsible for ensuring that all financial records, reports, and disclosures are accurate, complete, and timely.
j. Prevention of the Facilitation of Tax Evasion
Sustain Right does not tolerate any form of tax evasion or the facilitation of tax evasion by our employees, clients, or partners. We comply with all tax laws and regulations and expect our employees to act with integrity in all tax-related matters.
3. Respect for the People
We are committed to creating a work environment that fosters respect, diversity, and inclusion. We believe that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and we are dedicated to promoting a culture of equality and non-discrimination.
a. Equal Opportunity
Sustain Right is an equal opportunity employer. We make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
b. Non-Harassment
Harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and any other form of abusive or offensive behavior, is not tolerated at Sustain Right. We are committed to maintaining a workplace where employees feel safe and respected.
c. Human Rights
We respect and uphold human rights in all aspects of our business operations. We do not tolerate any form of forced labor, child labor, or human trafficking. We expect our suppliers and business partners to adhere to the same high standards of human rights.
d. Communication
Open and transparent communication is key to building a strong, inclusive, and collaborative workplace. We encourage employees to share their ideas, feedback, and concerns openly and constructively.
4. Environmental Stewardship
As a company dedicated to sustainability, we are committed to minimizing our environmental impact and promoting environmental responsibility in all aspects of our business.
a. Environment Protection
We strive to reduce our carbon footprint and implement sustainable practices throughout our operations. This includes minimizing waste, conserving energy and water, and reducing emissions.
b. Product Stewardship
We take responsibility for the environmental impact of our products and services throughout their lifecycle. This includes designing products with sustainability in mind, sourcing materials responsibly, and ensuring safe and environmentally friendly disposal.
5. Safety & Health
The safety and well-being of our employees, clients, and partners are of utmost importance. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment and to promoting the physical and mental well-being of our employees.
a. Safe Workplace
We prioritize safety in all our operations and activities. Employees are responsible for adhering to all safety guidelines, using personal protective equipment when necessary, and reporting any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.
b. Respect for Guidelines
Employees are expected to comply with all health and safety guidelines, including those related to emergency procedures, occupational health, and workplace ergonomics.
c. Drugs & Alcohol
The use of drugs or alcohol in the workplace can impair judgment and pose safety risks. Sustain Right prohibits the use, possession, distribution, or sale of illegal drugs or alcohol on company premises or while conducting company business.
d. Workplace Violence
Sustain Right has a zero-tolerance policy for workplace violence, including physical violence, threats, intimidation, and harassment.
6. Ethical Decision-Making Process
Making ethical decisions is critical to maintaining our integrity and reputation. If faced with an ethical dilemma, employees should ask themselves the following questions:
- Is the action legal and compliant with company policies?
- Does it align with our core values and ethical standards?
- Could it negatively impact Sustain Right's reputation or relationships?
- Would I be comfortable explaining this decision to a colleague, client, or the public?
If unsure, employees should seek guidance from their manager, HR, or the ethics committee.
7. Reporting and Enquiries
a. Speak Up!
We encourage all employees to speak up if they witness or suspect any unethical behavior, violations of this Code, or any other concerns. Reports can be made anonymously through our confidential reporting hotline or directly to HR or the compliance officer. We are committed to protecting whistleblowers from retaliation.
b. General Enquiries
Employees with questions or concerns about this Code of Conduct or any related policies should contact the HR department or the compliance officer.
8. We Live Our Values
At Sustain Right, we are committed to living our values every day. We hold ourselves accountable to the highest ethical standards and strive to make a positive impact on our communities and the environment.