Accredited Party Code of Conduct

1. Scope, Purpose & Definitions

1.1 Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all Accredited Parties, including individual trainers, organisational training providers, NGOs, and any subcontractors or affiliates, engaged in The ESG Institute–accredited activities. It governs the development, delivery, and promotion of all sustainability training programmes under our accreditation seal.

1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this Code is to:

  • Ensure that every accredited programme upholds the highest standards of integrity, quality, and professionalism.

  • Protect the reputation and credibility of The ESG Institute and its learners.

  • Provide clear expectations and obligations for Accredited Parties, fostering transparency, consistency, and trust across the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) spectrum.

1.3 Key Definitions

  • Accredited Party: Any individual or organisation holding active accreditation from The ESG Institute.

  • Greenwashing: The practice of making unsubstantiated, misleading, or exaggerated claims about the environmental or social benefits of a product, service, or practice.

  • Personal Data: Any information relating to an identified or identifiable individual, as defined under GDPR or equivalent local data-privacy laws.

  • Programme: Any course, workshop, e-learning module, or event accredited by The ESG Institute.

  • Third-Party Review: An independent assessment by a qualified expert or recognised authority to validate specialised claims or content.

2. Integrity & Honesty

2.1 Accurate Marketing & Communications

All promotional materials, websites, brochures, and public statements must truthfully represent the nature, scope, and outcomes of accredited programmes.

2.1.1 Substantiation of Claims

  • Every claim—whether about environmental impact, social outcomes, or governance improvements—must be supported by verifiable evidence (e.g., peer-reviewed studies, recognised standards, audited case studies).

  • References or citations should be provided in footnotes or appendices, and source documents must be made available on request.

2.1.2 Clear Disclaimers

  • Where outcomes depend on participant actions, local conditions, or organisational context, include a concise disclaimer (e.g., “Actual results may vary based on organisational readiness and regional regulations”).

  • Disclaimers must be displayed prominently in all marketing collateral and at the start of each programme.

2.1.3 Fee Transparency

  • All fees, including tuition, materials, travel, and administration, must be disclosed in full before enrolment.

  • Any potential additional costs (e.g., certification renewals, exam fees) must be outlined alongside the primary pricing.

2.2 No Greenwashing

Accredited Parties must ensure that all content, case studies, and examples presented in training are honest, transparent, and free from misleading environmental or social claims.

2.2.1 Evidence-Based Content

  • Case studies and success stories must include specific metrics (e.g., “Reduced operational waste by 15% in 12 months—verified by [Audit Body]”).

  • If a claim falls outside mainstream consensus or industry norm, it must be accompanied by detailed methodology and expert validation.

2.2.2 Third-Party Review

  • Any specialised or novel sustainability claim (e.g., innovative carbon-capture technology, social-impact measurement) must be reviewed and signed off by an independent subject-matter expert.

  • Documentation of the review process and expert credentials must be retained for audit purposes.

2.2.3 Prohibited Practices

  • Use of vague buzzwords such as “eco-friendly,” “green,” or “sustainable” without clear definition or backing is strictly prohibited.

  • Fabrication or embellishment of data, selective omission of contrary evidence, and reliance on unverified testimonials are not allowed.

3. Professional Competence

3.1 Qualifications & Expertise

Accredited Parties must demonstrate the necessary subject-matter expertise and maintain ongoing development to deliver high-quality sustainability training.

3.1.1 Minimum Credentials

  • Individual Trainers: Hold at least one recognised qualification (e.g., university degree, professional certification) in sustainability, environmental science, social impact, governance, or a closely related field.

  • Organisational Trainers: Maintain a roster of trainers, each meeting the individual-trainer minimum, with documented evidence of credentials on file.

3.1.2 Instructor Portfolio

  • Provide a portfolio listing a minimum of three recent training engagements, including:

    • Programme title and description

    • Audience size and profile

    • Dates and duration

    • Summary of feedback (quantitative scores and qualitative comments)

3.1.3 Annual CPD Requirements

  • Each accredited trainer must complete at least 20 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) per 12-month period. Acceptable CPD includes:

    • Attending or presenting at industry conferences and webinars

    • Publishing or peer-reviewed articles

    • Participating in recognised workshops or advanced courses

  • CPD activities should cover technical (environmental, social, governance) and pedagogical topics, with records submitted annually for review.

3.2 Quality of Delivery

Training must be designed and delivered using proven instructional best practices to achieve measurable learning outcomes.

3.2.1 Instructional Design Standards

  • Use an established framework (e.g., ADDIE, Bloom’s Taxonomy) to develop learning modules that align objectives, content, activities, and assessments.

  • Provide a documented design plan showing:

    • Learning objectives mapped to content modules

    • Assessment methods linked to each objective

    • Time allocations for instruction, practice, and feedback

3.2.2 Learner Engagement & Interactivity

  • Incorporate at least two active-learning strategies per programme, such as:

    • Case study analysis (real-world ESG scenarios)

    • Group problem-solving or role-plays

    • Interactive polls, quizzes, or simulations

  • Describe how you will adapt engagement techniques for virtual, in-person, and blended delivery modes.

3.2.3 Accessibility Testing

  • Prior to full launch, pilot course materials and delivery with a representative sample of learners (including individuals with disabilities or diverse learning needs).

  • Document participant feedback on accessibility and make necessary adjustments (e.g., simplified navigation, alternative media) before accreditation is granted.

4. Respect & Inclusion

4.1 Non-Discrimination

Accredited Parties must foster an inclusive learning environment free from bias or unfair exclusion.

4.1.1 Equal Access

  • Ensure no learner is denied participation or disadvantaged on the basis of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, or any other protected characteristic.

  • Offer reasonable accommodations—such as assistive technologies, extended time, or note-taking services—upon request.

4.1.2 Inclusive Language

  • Use gender-neutral pronouns and culturally sensitive terminology throughout all materials and communications.

  • Avoid idioms, metaphors, or examples that may alienate or confuse learners from different backgrounds.

4.2 Accessibility Standards

Training programmes must meet recognised accessibility criteria across digital and physical formats.

4.2.1 Digital Accessibility (WCAG 2.1 AA)

  • Online platforms and materials must conform to WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines, including:

    • Proper use of headings, lists, and landmarks

    • Sufficient colour contrast and resizable text

    • Descriptive alt text for images and transcripts/captions for multimedia

4.2.2 Physical Venue Requirements

  • In-person training venues must provide:

    • Step-free access and ramps where needed

    • Accessible restrooms and seating

    • Hearing-assist devices or quiet spaces for neurodiverse learners

4.2.3 Alternative Formats

  • Offer course content in multiple formats—such as large-print handouts, braille upon request, audio recordings, or screen-reader-compatible files—to accommodate diverse learning needs.

5. Conflict of Interest & Independence

5.1 Disclosure Requirements

Accredited Parties must proactively disclose any relationships or interests that could influence the objectivity of their training content or delivery.

5.1.1 Financial Interests

  • Declare any equity holdings, consultancy fees, honoraria, or sponsorships from organisations whose products, services, or methodologies are discussed in your programmes.

  • Updates to disclosures must be submitted within 10 business days of any material change (e.g., new investment, paid partnership).

5.1.2 Personal Relationships

  • Disclose any close personal or familial relationships with learners, client organisations, partner entities, or subject-matter experts whose work is cited.

  • If a personal relationship could reasonably be perceived to bias content or assessment, Accredited Parties must manage the conflict (e.g., by assigning an independent reviewer).

5.2 Impartiality in Content

Training materials and delivery must remain free from undue influence, ensuring recommendations and examples are based solely on merit and evidence.

5.2.1 Sponsored Content Labeling

  • Any module, case study, or resource funded or provided by a third party must carry a clear label such as “Sponsored by [Name]” or “Courtesy of [Name]”.

  • Sponsorship logos and branding may appear only in the designated sponsor section—never embedded directly in core learning slides or handouts.

5.2.2 Recusal Procedures

  • In instances where an Accredited Party’s conflict cannot be adequately managed (e.g., significant financial stake in a supplier), the individual or organisation must recuse themselves from decision-making or content development.

  • Affected modules must be developed or reviewed by an impartial alternative who meets the same accreditation standards, with documentation of the recusal and replacement process retained for audit.

6. Confidentiality & Data Protection

6.1 Learner Data Management

Accredited Parties must handle all personal data collected during the accreditation process and programme delivery in full compliance with relevant data-protection laws.

6.1.1 Lawful Basis & Consent

  • Collect personal data (e.g., names, emails, feedback) only when there is a legal basis—typically explicit consent for training-related purposes.

  • Provide a clear privacy notice at the point of data collection explaining purpose, storage duration, and learner rights.

6.1.2 Secure Storage & Access Controls

  • Store personal data in encrypted databases or password-protected systems.

  • Limit access to authorised personnel; use role-based permissions and maintain an access log.

6.1.3 Data Subject Rights

  • Implement procedures for learners to exercise their rights under GDPR or equivalent laws, including rights to access, rectify, port, or erase their personal data.

  • Acknowledge and fulfil data-subject requests within the legally mandated timeframe (e.g., one month under GDPR).

6.2 Proprietary & Institute Materials

All intellectual property and confidential resources provided by The ESG Institute or co-developed during accreditation remain the Institute’s property.

6.2.1 Non-Disclosure Obligations

  • Do not share, distribute, or repurpose any proprietary slides, templates, datasets, or internal guidelines without prior written permission.

  • Ensure all staff and subcontractors sign nondisclosure agreements that mirror or exceed the Institute’s own confidentiality requirements.

6.2.2 Return or Destruction of Materials

  • Upon accreditation expiration, revocation, or request, securely return or destroy all Institute-owned materials within seven calendar days.

  • Provide a signed certificate of destruction or a manifest of returned items to The ESG Institute for recordkeeping.

7. Continuous Improvement

7.1 Systematic Feedback Collection

Accredited Parties must implement structured mechanisms to gather and analyze learner and stakeholder feedback, driving evidence-based improvements.

7.1.1 Response-Rate Targets

  • Aim for a minimum 70 % response rate on post-programme surveys.

  • If response rates fall below 70 % for two consecutive programmes, submit a remediation plan within 30 days detailing steps to boost engagement.

7.1.2 Multi-Modal Evaluation

  • Combine quantitative (e.g., Likert-scale satisfaction, knowledge-gain scores) and qualitative data (open-ended comments, interviews).

  • Where feasible, incorporate pre- and post-training assessments to measure learning outcomes objectively.

  • Analyze feedback by demographic segments (e.g., role, region, accessibility needs) to identify equity gaps.

7.2 Review & Revision Cycle

All accredited programmes and materials must undergo formal periodic reviews to ensure continued relevance, accuracy, and alignment with best practices.

7.2.1 Annual Audit Requirements

  • Conduct a comprehensive audit of each accredited programme at least once every 12 months, covering:

    • Curriculum accuracy and citation currency (no sources older than 36 months without justification)

    • Alignment with stated learning objectives

    • Accessibility compliance

  • Document audit findings in a standardized report and submit to The ESG Institute within 30 days of completion.

7.2.2 Corrective-Action Planning

  • For any audit findings rated “Needs Improvement” (e.g., average feedback score < 4.0/5.0, accessibility gaps), develop a Corrective-Action Plan within 15 days.

  • Plans must include:

    • Description of issue

    • Proposed remediation steps

    • Responsible parties and timelines (maximum 90 days to complete)

  • Submit progress updates quarterly until closure, and confirm completion with evidence.

8. Reporting, Enforcement & Accountability

8.1 Breach Reporting

Accredited Parties must promptly report any actual or potential breaches of this Code, whether self-identified or brought to their attention.

8.1.1 Self-Reporting Protocol

  • Notify The ESG Institute in writing within 5 business days of discovering a breach, providing:

    • Nature and scope of the breach

    • Parties involved

    • Immediate containment measures taken

8.1.2 Whistleblower Channel

  • Maintain a confidential mechanism (e.g., secure email, external hotline) for learners, staff, or partners to report concerns anonymously.

  • Acknowledge receipt of whistleblower reports within 3 business days and provide status updates every 10 business days thereafter.

8.2 Investigation & Sanctions

The ESG Institute will assess reported breaches impartially and apply sanctions proportionate to severity, ensuring due process.

8.2.1 Investigation Process

  • Within 10 business days of breach notification, The ESG Institute assigns an investigator or panel.

  • Accredited Parties must cooperate fully, providing requested documentation, access, and interviews.

8.2.2 Range of Sanctions

  • Minor (e.g., single small infraction): Written warning and mandatory retraining.

  • Moderate (e.g., repeated or material breach): Probationary status, additional audits, or suspension of accreditation for up to 6 months.

  • Severe (e.g., willful misconduct, data breach): Revocation of accreditation and potential public disclosure.

8.2.3 Appeals Process

  • Accredited Parties may appeal findings or sanctions within 10 business days of notice.

  • Appeals must be submitted in writing with supporting evidence.

  • An independent Appeal Panel will render a decision within 20 business days, whose verdict is final.

8.3 Record-Keeping & Transparency

Accredited Parties and The ESG Institute share responsibility for maintaining auditable records and upholding transparency where appropriate.

8.3.1 Audit Trail Retention

  • Retain all records related to accreditation activities—including applications, audit reports, feedback data, breach notifications, and corrective-action documentation—for a minimum of 5 years.

  • Store records in a secure, access-controlled environment.

8.3.2 Public Disclosure Guidelines

  • The ESG Institute may publish anonymized summaries of serious breaches or accreditation revocations on its website.

  • Accredited Parties should inform their stakeholders of any suspension or revocation affecting public-facing programmes.

9. Environmental, Social & Governance Commitments

9.1 Human Rights & Labor Standards

Accredited Parties must ensure all training content and recommendations uphold internationally recognised human-rights principles and fair labor practices.

  • UN Guiding Principles Alignment: Content must reference and align with the UN Guiding Principles on Business & Human Rights.

  • Forced Labor & Child Labor: Materials and case studies must neither condone nor depict forced or child labor. Trainers must certify that any third-party examples are free of these practices.

  • Fair Wages & Working Conditions: Where labour standards are discussed, ensure any exemplar organisations demonstrate fair wage policies, safe workplaces, and the right to collective bargaining.

9.2 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

Training must proactively foster a culture of belonging and equal opportunity, both within the learning experience and in the wider ESG context.

  • Representation in Content: Case studies, photos, and examples should feature diverse genders, ethnicities, abilities, and geographies.

  • Outreach Plans: Accredited Parties must submit a DEI plan outlining recruitment or marketing strategies to attract under-served or marginalised learner groups.

  • Accommodation Policies: Beyond basic accessibility, programmes should include guidelines on religious observances, neurodiversity support, and flexible timing for caregivers.

9.3 Anti-Corruption & Ethical Business Practices

Governance training must reflect zero tolerance for bribery, fraud, or unethical influence.

  • Legal Frameworks: Content must reference relevant anti-corruption laws (e.g. UK Bribery Act, U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act) and demonstrate how organisations can comply.

  • Conflict Mitigation: Trainers shall present case studies on identifying and managing corruption risks in procurement, partnerships, and supply chains.

  • Ethics Scenarios: Interactive exercises should include realistic dilemmas (e.g. gifts to officials, undue influence) with guided resolution frameworks.

9.4 Data Governance & Transparency

With ESG data increasingly material to decision-making, Accredited Parties must demonstrate best practices in managing, disclosing, and protecting data.

  • Standards Compliance: Digital programmes must meet ISO 27001 or equivalent data-security frameworks; privacy notices must align with GDPR (or local law).

  • Data Quality & Disclosure: Trainers must model how to apply TCFD, SASB, or equivalent standards for transparent ESG reporting, including methodologies for data validation and audit trails.

  • Consent & Access: Participants’ personal data collected during training must be governed by clear consent mechanisms, with rights to access, correct, and delete their records.

10. Renewal & Accreditation Maintenance

10.1 Renewal Cycles & Fees

  • Cycle Length: Accreditation is valid for three years from the date of issue.

  • Renewal Application: Submit a renewal dossier at least 90 days prior to expiry, including updated programme materials, policy changes, and CPD logs.

  • Fees: Renewal fees are tiered—Professional: £X; Business: £Y; Not-For-Profit: £Z; Per Programme: £W—and payable upon submission of the renewal application.

10.2 Spot-Checks & Interim Reviews

  • Unannounced Reviews: The ESG Institute may conduct up to two unannounced spot-checks per accreditation cycle, requesting evidence of ongoing compliance.

  • Interim Reporting: Accredited Parties must submit a brief mid-cycle status report (year 2) summarising key developments, feedback trends, and any material changes to programmes.

10.3 Annual Self-Audit Reporting

  • Format: Use the Institute’s Self-Audit Template (see Appendix B) to report on training metrics, audit findings, corrective-action outcomes, and feedback statistics.

  • Deadline: Annual reports are due no later than 30 days after each anniversary of the accreditation issue date.

  • Review: The ESG Institute will provide consolidated feedback and, if necessary, require supplemental evidence within 15 business days.

11. Declaration & Agreement

11.1 Applicant Declaration Text

“I confirm that I have read and will comply with The ESG Institute’s Accredited Party Code of Conduct, and commit to its full implementation.”

12. Appendices

A. Sample Learning-Objectives Template

Module 1

  • Learning Objective (SMART): By the end of this module, learners will be able to explain the five pillars of sustainable procurement.

  • Assessment Method: Multiple-choice quiz

B. Feedback Survey Example

  1. Overall Satisfaction (1–5)

  2. Clarity of Content (1–5)

  3. Relevance of Topics Covered (1–5)

  4. Accessibility Experience (Free text)

  5. Suggestions for Improvement (Free text)

C. Logo & Badge Usage Guidelines

  • Logo: The ESG Institute accreditation logo may appear on course materials, websites, and certificates. Maintain a clear space equal to half the logo’s height on all sides.

  • Badge: Digital badges must link back to the Institute’s verification page and may not be altered in colour or aspect ratio.

Note: This Code of Conduct may be amended by The ESG Institute at any time. Accredited Parties will be notified of material changes and are responsible for complying with the latest version.