Impact Day is committed to creating a sustainable and positive impact on our world, and this commitment shapes every aspect of our event. This Code of Conduct outlines our sustainability guidelines, which provide clear directives on creating an environmentally-friendly experience. We request all partners to adhere to these guidelines throughout the partnership.
I. Introduction and Commitment
As partners of Impact Day, we all share a responsibility for promoting and ensuring a sustainable and inclusive environment. We encourage everyone involved to understand and respect the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct.
II. Production, Building, and Areas
Use reusable materials as much as possible in your stand or area design. Avoid disposable carpets, one-time event-specific information, and minimise your use of fastening materials. All waste should be collected separately, and boxes should be disassembled before disposal.
III. Energy and Resources
We encourage minimal use of electronics and machinery, with a preference for energy-efficient items. All non-essential equipment should be turned off outside of event hours. Additionally, any hand sanitizers provided should be housed in leak-proof containers to prevent unnecessary waste.
IV. Materials and Reduction of Waste
Minimise the use of disposable materials and packaging. No balloons or other non-reusable items should be used. When distributing gifts or promotional items, ensure they are practical, reusable, and minimally packaged.
V. Food and Beverages
All food and beverage providers must use reusable dishes or deposit-subjected containers. No disposable containers, cutlery, or other single-use items are allowed. Waste like coffee grounds must be collected separately. Any edible leftovers should be donated or shared with staff, volunteers, or food-sharing organisations.
VI. Waste Management
All waste must be sorted and disposed of following our designated collection categories, including biowaste, packaging, paper, and cardboard, deposit bottles & cans, and mixed waste. No waste bins other than those provided are to be used in expo stands or partner areas.
VII. Transportation
Opt for shared, public, or lightweight transportation for your journey to Impact Day. Minimise the use of packaging when transporting equipment and optimise logistics to limit delivery trips.
VIII. Impact on the Area
Ensure the event area is left in the same condition as before the event. Park vehicles only in designated areas.
IX. Equal Opportunity
We encourage all our partners to practice and promote equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their gender, race, religion, age, or disability.
X. Fair Trade
Support fair trade principles by sourcing products and services from suppliers who offer fair wages and working conditions. This ensures that your operations do not exploit workers, particularly in developing countries.
XI. Community Engagement
Engage with local communities whenever possible. This could be through sourcing local products and services, hiring local staff, or supporting local community projects.
XII. Health and Well-being
The health and well-being of your employees, as well as all attendees at Impact Day, should be a top priority. Provide a safe and comfortable environment for all and encourage practices that promote physical and mental health.
XIII. Accessibility
Ensure that your resources are accessible to people of all abilities. This could involve providing wheelchair-friendly spaces, sign language interpreters, or information in braille.
XIV. Responsible Marketing
All marketing should be honest and respectful, without any misleading claims. Respect for the individual’s privacy should always be maintained.
XV. Ethical Conduct
We expect all our partners to commit to ethical business practices, such as anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability.
XVI. Green Procurement
We encourage our partners to consider the life-cycle impacts of their products and services, opting for suppliers who demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability.
XVII. Staff Training
Consider providing sustainability training for staff members to enhance their understanding of environmental issues and foster environmentally-friendly behaviors at Impact Day and beyond.
XVIII. General Recommendations
We encourage all our partners to adopt environmentally friendly practices, such as bringing their own water bottles or coffee cups and limiting printed materials.
XIX. Compliance and Consequences
We expect all our partners to uphold these guidelines. Non-compliance may lead to consequences, including potential termination of partnership.
XX. Feedback, Reporting, and Dispute Resolution
We encourage our partners to provide feedback on these guidelines and report any violations. Please contact our head organizer, Merili Ginter, at merili@impactday.eu. All reports will be handled with confidentiality and respect.
XXI. Support and Resources
We are committed to assisting our partners in adhering to these guidelines. If you need help transitioning towards more sustainable practices, please reach out to us for resources and support.
XXII. Updates
These guidelines will be updated annually.
XXIII. Conclusion
Our Code of Conduct is not just about compliance; it’s about fostering a community of impacters who are committed to sustainability and positive change.