Code of Ethics |
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We hold each of our employees/contractors to the highest ethical standard from entry level to board room it is important to both know and be guided by these principles. It is important that we all understand that this level of conduct is a requirement for us all no matter the title or location. Whether in the US or overseas we have enumerated this to address any situation that might arise. This Code describes the correct means for doing business for all those charged with the business of Green Star Energies and provides a framework for all business interaction. Boundaries and Expectations Any Green Star Energies Associate must be mindful of his or her level of authority that pertains to their work. Each must proceed within the boundaries of their authority. For our Associates that must be guided by regulatory concerns know that these concerns are primary but that this code supersedes only when the level of expectation is higher. This Code cannot anticipate all possible scenarios. When a situation presents itself that is not addressed within then exercising good judgment and asking for the guidance of management is the expectation. Note that this code is part of a set of standards that should inform each of us in all Company dealings. When asking for guidance from our supervisors the expectation is for timely and thoughtful response. Adherence and Reporting Showing poor judgment that is at odds with the Code may be grounds for dismissal. Likewise, any Associate that allows and approves of conduct at odds with the Code and does not take action to correct these actions in regard to the Code, may find themselves subject to disciplinary action or termination. It is expected that there is an obligation for each of our Associates to report Code violations. Each of us is obligated to promptly speak up if there is any reason to suspect that any of us or our affiliates are in violation of or have intentionally or inadvertently violated Green Star Energies policies or any laws or might act in any way that could damage the Company's reputation. Retaliation for reports made in good faith also will not be tolerated.
Green Star accounting records are to be prepared with both accuracy and honesty. All entries in our accounting books are supported by documentation providing complete, accurate and auditable records of all Company transactions.
It is our policy that any Associate or Director will not engage in activities that subvert Green Star Energies business interests, adversely affect the Company's reputation and relationships, or interfere with any Associates job responsibilities. All activities of Associates and Directors must always be for the benefit of the Company. Associates and Directors will not compete against Green Star Energies' interests or use their position and access to information, assets or resources for personal gain or that of others. Associates and Directors also may not take for themselves opportunities discovered as a result of their position at the Company. All Green Star Energies assets and property should be used only for purposes that are allowed by the code and that are beneficial to the Company. Any activity that has either a real or appearance of a conflict of interest, whether or not an actual conflict exists, must be avoided. Any potential conflict of interest must be reported. These conflict of interest standards extend to immediate family members and are considered the actions of the Associate or Director.
We will not receive compensation other than that provided by Green Star Energies for services provided to individuals or companies on behalf of Green Star Energies. In light of this, the following are forbidden: accepting fees for services provided when working in a Company capacity; accepting gifts of any kind with more than a nominal value from either individuals or organizations that have current or are seeking business with Green Star Energies. t is also prohibited in situations when Associates and Directors are aware of confidential nonpublic information concerning Green Star Energies and the parties with which the Company does business, we are prohibited from using such confidential information for personal financial gain, such as for purposes of stock trading or any purpose other than for conducting Green Star Energies business. We must maintain the confidentiality of such information and may not make disclosures to third parties, including members of our families. It is unethical to use nonpublic information for personal financial benefit or to share that information with others who may use it as the basis for making stock trades. Such activity is also illegal in the United States.
People in the form of Associates and Directors are our companys most prized asset.
A diverse work force provides a variety of perspectives that is invaluable. Promoting diversity within our company by creating an inclusive environment enables each of us to fully participate and provide for Green Star Energies' success. It is Green Star Energies' policy to provide equal opportunity and with regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, disability, political preference, sexual orientation, membership or non-membership in any lawful organization including any others that are prohibited by local laws and regulations. Green Star Energies is committed to maintaining a positive environment where Associates and Directors can carry out their roles without the threat of physical or verbal harassment because of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, color, age, national origin, disability, veteran or any other status. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, offensive, hostile or intimidating words or actions and inappropriate conduct, such as sexual advances or innuendo. Green Star Energies. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. The possession and use of intoxicants during work hours is prohibited and is grounds for dismissal. No violence of any kind is tolerated and is grounds for dismissal. Continued employment is based on performance; the policy is to direct wages and salaries in a method that maintains a competitive position that is compelling to top personnel, to encourage and reward superior performance. Green Star Energies does not guarantee employment, it offers an environment though where individual success is rewarded.
Public policy decisions have a profound affect on our operations and future. Green Star Energies exercises its rights by participating in the ongoing public policy debate. Using Green Star Energies resources and expertise can add value to both the Company and the policy making processes. These activities still must meet our ethical standards and fulfill all applicable laws and regulations. How we fulfill our roll in this process has significant implications for our reputation as well as our ability to partner with officials and other stakeholders in forming public policy. Green Star Energies encourages its Associates and Directors to participate civically, in regard to communicating our views to officials on matters important to us as individuals. In these individual endeavors we must not claim to represent Green Star Energies without prior approval. Associates and Directors serving on governmental policy-making and regulatory committees have the added responsibility of avoiding any real or perceived conflict of interest. Any type of activity that could be construed as a campaign contribution by Green Star Energies may be in violation of US election law and is prohibited. Bribes of any type anywhere are forbidden by Green Star Energies policy and US law.
Green Star Energies charges itself with the health and environmental safety in its sphere of operation. Each of us is committed to placing the highest priority on the health and environmental safety of the workplace and the community members where we operate. We all have the authority and responsibility to end a work activity if hazards or concerns are suspected. Green Star Energies is committed to compliance to all environmental, health and safety laws, regulations and best practices, regardless of their enforcement. Our commitment to this informs our policy regarding regulation or government policy that is unsound or contrary to law, we will work through available civic processes to change regulations or policies. Until regulations or policies are changed, the Company will comply.
The purpose of antitrust law is to ensure a truly free market. Green Star Energies competes aggressively in its business activities, we conduct business in accordance with the letter and spirit of these laws. Our primary competitive responsibilities concern Green Star Energies' relations with competitors, customers and suppliers. Green Star Energies makes its pricing decisions independently of competitors. We will never collude with a competitor to divide either customers or territories, to either allocate bids or refuse them, or to refrain from selling a given product or service a region or in any category. These agreements, like price-fixing, are illegal. Contact with competitors can give rise to concerns regarding anticompetitive actions and the appearance of restraint of trade." Unlawful agreements are often arrived at without a written contract. Courts will infer agreements based on informal discussions, or even an exchange of information between competitors. Any type of communication with competitors may result in accusations of both improper and illegal conduct. Any exchange of information between competitors raises anticompetitive concerns, which includes that obtained through third parties. Legitimate exchanges of information may occur, the nature of these laws and regulations though make guidance from our attorney advisable. To minimize the risks arising from contacts with competitors, such contacts should be kept to an absolute minimum. This also means that trade association membership must be approved by management.
The collection, maintenance and disclosure of personal information as it affects Associates, contractors, Directors, customers and all other persons with whom Green Star Energies transacts business. Green Star Energies respects the confidentiality relating to identified or identifiable persons. Company policy covers unauthorized, improper and secure disclosure of information. The only personal information that is permitted to be released to inquiring parties outside Green Star Energies concerning an Associates employment or credit is the person's date of employ and job title. Any other information may be provided only with authorization. An Associate's performance evaluation may not be disclosed on behalf of Green Star Energies, even with their permission. Individuals asked by an employee or contractor to provide such information may write personal letters of recommendation on their own personal -- not the Company's -- stationery.
Green Star Energies' intellectual property is a vital Company resource. We include Company's records, stored on any media and format, as well as the systems that transmit the information. This also includes intellectual property, which could comprise ideas or concepts including trade secrets and patents.
Green Star Energies policy safeguards all Company information assets against theft, infringement, indiscriminate handling, unauthorized disclosure and misuse. In our work, we may be authorized in regard to particular information assets. However, any unauthorized review, copying, distribution or removal, in addition to destruction, revision or inappropriate use, is proscribed and may be grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Sensitive information consists of trade secrets, competitive or commercial documents, as well as customer account details. Care and discretion are essential in using classified, confidential or business sensitive information. This information should be available only with other Green Star Energies Associates who have a legitimate use. Similarly, this information must not be shared with persons outside the Company, except with those who have a legitimate use and have shown sufficient assurances (such as binding confidentiality agreements) that the information will be properly protected. The same care must be used with any information that might be contain sensitive data which has been entrusted to us by third parties. Failure in this regard could expose Green Star Energies to a substantial liability.
Green Star Energies policy is to respect the judicial process. Any Associate or Director involved in litigation discovery is required to comply with the instructions of the Company's legal counsel, and report a suspected violation. We are each expected to treat litigation discovery as a priority.
Green Star Energies'
ethical as well as legal obligations go beyond what has been discussed
thus far. Green Star Energies is also concerned with compliance regarding
the many other laws, regulations and business practices that inform the
conduct of any responsible business. If any questions arise regarding
proper conduct, it is expected that we consult with management. The breadth
of responsibility regarding our corporate obligations cannot be enumerated
in a static code; it is though possible to use judgment in a way that
is consistent with the values set forth in this Code. |
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