Terra Amata Code of Conduct for Manufacturers and Suppliers
Terra Amata is committed to upholding human rights, ethical business practices, and environmental sustainability across our supply chain. This Code of Conduct outlines the values and principles we expect our business partners (referred to in the document as “Partner” individually or “Partners” collectively) and their subcontractors to adhere to. These standards are based on international conventions, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.
This Code is not only a standard but a shared commitment to transparency, continuous improvement, and accountability in our production practices.
1. LEGAL COMPLIANCE
Partners must comply with all national laws and regulations in their operating countries. Where national law and this Code differ, the standard most protective of workers’ rights, health, and environmental integrity shall apply. Compliance with this Code does not replace or override any other contractual obligations with Terra Amata.
2. LABOR AND HUMAN RIGHTS
Workers' Rights
- All workers must have written employment contracts in a language they understand, clearly outlining their rights and obligations.
- Employment must be freely chosen, with no forced, bonded, or involuntary labor permitted.
- Migrant workers must receive equal treatment to local employees.
No Discrimination
- Partners must provide a workplace free from discrimination based on gender, age, race, religion, caste, pregnancy, disability, social background, sexual orientation, political opinions, or other protected characteristics.
- Harassment, abuse, or disciplinary action based on discriminatory grounds is not tolerated.
Freedom of Association
- Partners must respect the rights of workers to form or join trade unions and engage in collective bargaining.
- In countries where trade union activity is restricted, workers must be able to elect representatives for workplace discussions.
Child and Young Workers
- Partners must not employ workers under 15 years of age or the legal minimum working age, whichever is higher.
- Young workers (under 18) must not perform hazardous work and their employment must not interfere with education.
Wages and Benefits
- Partners must pay at least the minimum wage, industry-standard wage, or collectively bargained wage, whichever is higher.
- Wages must be sufficient to provide a decent standard of living for workers and their families.
- Payments must be made regularly, on time, and with transparency.
Working Hours
- The standard workweek must not exceed 48 hours.
- Overtime must be voluntary, compensated fairly, and not exceed 12 hours per week.
- Workers must receive at least one full day off every seven days.
Health and Safety
- Partners must provide a safe, clean, and healthy working environment.
- Facilities must include safe drinking water, sanitary restrooms, clean eating areas, and first aid equipment.
- Emergency exits must be marked and unobstructed, and workers must have the right to leave premises in case of danger, without penalty.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
Environmental Compliance
- Partners must comply with all relevant environmental laws and possess valid permits for operations.
Water Management
- Water usage must be optimised and wastewater must be treated before disposal according to local regulations.
Waste and Resource Management
- Partners must work to minimize waste and emissions while maximizing energy and material efficiency.
- Responsible disposal and management of solid waste, wastewater, and air pollutants is required.
- Recycling and reuse must be prioritized where possible.
Chemical Management
- Partners must comply with the European REACH regulation regarding chemical safety.
- Hazardous substances must be identified, stored, and disposed of safely, with proper training provided to employees.
Animal Welfare
- Partners must ensure that any materials derived from animals come from sources that comply with animal welfare laws and ethical treatment guidelines.
4. MONITORING, COMPLIANCE, AND ENFORCEMENT
- Terra Amata reserves the right to conduct audits, both announced and unannounced, and to appoint third-party auditors to ensure compliance.
- Partners must grant full access to facilities, documents, and personnel as part of any compliance assessment.
- If violations are found, Terra Amata will work with the Partner to develop a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) with timelines and measurable goals.
- Partners are responsible for ensuring their subcontractors also comply with this Code of Conduct.
- Any Partner found in repeated violation of this Code may face suspension or termination of the business relationship.
5. COMMITMENT TO THE CODE OF CONDUCT
All Partners must sign this Code of Conduct as a commitment to uphold these principles. By signing, Partners take responsibility for informing all subcontractors to ensure compliance throughout the supply chain. Terra Amata may update this Code periodically to reflect evolving best practices; Partners are expected to review and recommit annually.
Signed by:
Partner Name: ___________________
Company Name: __________________
Date: ___________________________