The Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct in all its activities. This Zero Tolerance Policy aims to prevent and eliminate any form of bribery, corruption, or unethical behavior within TIES. It outlines the expected behavior and standards of conduct for all TIES members, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

1. Bribery and Corruption

TIES strictly prohibits any involvement in bribery, corruption, or facilitation payments, whether directly or indirectly, in all its operations, partnerships, and relationships.

2. Ethical Behavior

TIES expects all its employees, volunteers, representatives, partners, and stakeholders to adhere to the highest ethical standards, including honesty, integrity, respect, inclusivity, professionalism, and accountability. Discrimination, harassment, and any form of harmful behavior are prohibited. Projects prioritize environmental sustainability, community well-being, and ethical research practices.

• Conduct environmental impact assessments before projects.
• Engage local communities respectfully, ensuring informed consent.
• Respect cultural diversity and adapt methods accordingly.
• Maintain transparency and accessible communication with stakeholders.
• Ensure data integrity and share findings openly.
• Provide equitable benefits to participating communities.
• Resolve conflicts peacefully and respectfully.
• Design projects for long-term sustainability and positive legacy.
• Respect privacy and confidentiality.
• Submit sensitive projects for ethical review and approval.
• Continuously evaluate and improve ethical practices.
• Comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

3. Gifts, Benefits, and Conflicts of Interest

Employees, volunteers, and representatives must disclose any potential conflicts of interest promptly, avoid accepting or offering gifts or benefits that compromise integrity, and always act in TIES’ best interests.

4. Reporting Misconduct

TIES encourages reporting of any observed or suspected misconduct, including bribery, corruption, or unethical behavior. Confidential reporting mechanisms protect individuals who come forward.

5. Whistleblower Protection

Individuals who report misconduct are protected from retaliation or adverse actions, with confidentiality maintained throughout investigations.

6. Investigation and Consequences

All reports of misconduct will be thoroughly and impartially investigated. Appropriate disciplinary measures, including warnings, suspension, demotion, termination, restitution, or legal action, will be taken based on severity.

7. Training and Education

TIES provides regular training to ensure understanding of this policy and each individual’s responsibilities.

8. Consequences of Violations

Violations can result in disciplinary action, legal consequences, restitution, loss of benefits, and damage to reputation. Records of violations are maintained.

9. Review and Updates

This policy is reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to align with ethical standards, laws, and organizational needs.

10. External Standards and Compliance

TIES ensures its policies comply with relevant legal and regulatory frameworks for non-profit organizations, ethics, and anti-corruption.

By adhering to these policies, TIES fosters a culture of integrity, trust, and accountability, contributing to its mission of ecological research, community development, and environmental sustainability.

Date of Policy Adoption: 01.01.2022
Policy Owner: Prof. Ipe Mathew
Contact: +91 481 2957050, info@ties.org.in, www.ties.org.in