Conflicts of interest policy
Every decision at Local Solar System is made for the mission. Never for a friend, a favour or a gift.
NASA
Fair and honest relations
We deal with partners, grantees, suppliers and contributors honestly, respectfully, fairly and with integrity. We comply with the laws and regulations wherever we operate. We do not offer or accept, from existing or potential partners, any reward or benefit that breaks the law or this framework.
We make our partners and suppliers aware of this framework and our values. Corruption of any kind is contrary to the purpose of our work, and we have zero tolerance for it.
Corruption of any kind is contrary to the purpose of our work.
Conflicts of interest
A conflict of interest arises when anything interferes with, or could influence, a person’s independent judgement about what is best for Local Solar System. We must avoid situations where our personal interests conflict with those of the project.
It is not always easy to tell. If in doubt, be transparent and ask. Clear conflicts must be declared immediately to the Council. Situations to watch for include:
Board and advisory roles. Serving on the board of another organisation is not permitted if it creates a conflict of interest. People in paid or Council roles must declare such positions to the Council.
Gifts and benefits. No one may offer or accept gifts or benefits that would break this framework or the law, or that could affect their judgement.
Business opportunities. No one may take for themselves an opportunity that arises through their work for Local Solar System if doing so would be against the project’s interests, or use project property or information for personal gain.
Funding. No one may arrange or promote funding, payments or contracts that benefit themselves or their immediate family without declaring it and stepping out of the decision.
Other work. Outside work, paid or unpaid, must not affect the quality of work done for the project or take time committed to it.
Personal relationships. Be alert to conflicts whenever a family member, relative or close friend is involved, inside or outside the project.
Gifts and hospitality
Modest gifts and hospitality can be a normal part of building good relationships, provided they have little commercial value. Anything of greater value must be declared to the Council. We never, directly or indirectly, demand, accept, offer or give a bribe, an improper loan or any other unlawful or unethical benefit.
Political and religious neutrality
Local Solar System is neutral with regard to political parties, candidates and religious beliefs. Neither the project’s name nor its assets may be used to promote or discredit a political party, a candidate or a religious standpoint.
Harassment
No form of harassment is tolerated. This includes intimidation, discrimination, sexual harassment, racism, bullying, and acts or threats of violence. We act quickly and effectively against harassment of anyone taking part in the project.
Forced labour and child labour
No form of forced, compulsory or child labour is tolerated, in our own work or in our supply chain.
Alcohol and drugs
No one may carry out work for the project under the influence of alcohol or any substance that prevents them from doing it safely and well.
Freedom of association
We respect everyone’s right to join, form or not join an association of their choice, without fear of reprisal, interference, intimidation or harassment.
Reporting misconduct
We want everyone, inside and outside the project, to feel able to raise concerns about misconduct in our activities or in activities we fund. If you suspect misconduct, please come forward in good faith.
Contact us and mark your message “Confidential: misconduct report”. Reports are handled only by the Council, in strict confidence, and we protect the identities of the people involved. No one who raises a concern in good faith will suffer any disadvantage as a result.