NOS Sustainable Northwest Code of Conduct

    Introduction

    At NOS Sustainable Northwest, we are committed to co-creating thriving and resilient coastal communities with economic diversity, healthy ecosystems and abundant, recovered resources. Our mission is to build capacity to create resilient, empowered and inclusive communities capable of restoring themselves and their ecosystems, generating regenerative economies. This Code of Conduct sets out the principles that guide our actions and decisions, ensuring that we act with integrity and respect for communities and the environment.

    Applicability

    This Code applies to all members of Sustainable Northwest NOS, including employees, volunteers, collaborators and partners. We are all required to adhere to these principles in our daily activities and in our interactions with communities, partners and each other.

    Responsibility

    Each NOS member is responsible for acting in accordance with this Code and fostering a culture of integrity and respect. We must be mindful of how our actions affect coastal communities and the environment, and strive to promote sustainable and equitable practices.

    Open Communication

    We foster an environment where any concerns or questions can be raised without fear of retaliation. If you observe behaviors that do not align with this Code, we encourage you to communicate with us through established channels, ensuring that they are addressed appropriately and confidentially.

    Integrity in Action

    We act with honesty and transparency in all our activities. This includes the responsible management of resources, clear and truthful communication, and the fulfillment of our promises and commitments to communities and partners.

    Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI)

    We recognize that fairness, equity, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of our mission.

    • Justice: We strive to identify and dismantle systemic barriers that limit access to resources and opportunities for coastal communities. This involves understanding existing inequalities and actively working to correct them.
    • Equity: We create systems and cultures that provide all individuals with the opportunities and resources they need to thrive. We recognize that not everyone starts from the same point and tailor our support to meet the specific needs of each community.
    • Diversity: We value and respect the unique perspectives, experiences and differences of each individual. We encourage the participation of a wide range of voices to enrich our decisions and strengthen our initiatives.
    • Inclusion: We promote an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected and valued. We ensure that the voices of marginalized individuals and groups are heard and considered in our actions and decisions.

    Legal Compliance

    We comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the regions where we operate. This includes, but is not limited to, environmental, labor, and human rights laws.

    Environmental Protection, Health and Safety

    We are committed to protecting and restoring marine and coastal ecosystems. We implement practices that promote environmental sustainability and ensure the health and safety of the communities with which we work.

    Conflicts of Interest

    We avoid situations where personal interests may interfere with our professional responsibilities. We act in the best interests of NOS and the communities we serve, ensuring that our decisions are impartial and based on our core values.

    Transparent Financial Management

    We maintain accurate and transparent financial records. We use resources responsibly and are accountable to our donors, partners and communities.

    Gifts and Hospitality

    We do not accept or offer gifts, hospitality or payments that could improperly influence our decisions or compromise our integrity. Any such exchange must be transparent and aligned with our internal policies.

    Community Protection

    We take proactive measures to protect community members from any form of abuse or exploitation. This includes implementing policies and procedures that safeguard the well-being of the people with whom we interact.

    Confidentiality and Data Protection

    We respect the privacy and confidentiality of information of NOS communities, partners and members. We handle data responsibly and in compliance with applicable data protection laws.

    Responsible Use of Social Networks

    We use social media in a way that reflects our values and mission. We ensure that our communications are respectful, accurate and do not compromise the integrity of NOS or the communities we work with.

    Compliance with Policies and Procedures

    We adhere to the policies and procedures established by NOS, recognizing that they are designed to guide us in carrying out our mission effectively and ethically.

    Training and Recognition

    We participate in training programs that reinforce our understanding and application of this Code. We recognize that continuous learning is essential to maintaining the highest standards of conduct.

    Violations of the Code

    Violations of this Code are taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action. It is the responsibility of each NOS member to report any observed non-compliance.