Policies

Our human rights and environmental policies apply to all sub-contractors and third-party suppliers that we engage with. We require all partners in our supply chain to adhere to the same ethical standards that we uphold, including compliance with labour rights, environmental sustainability, and zero-tolerance issues such as forced labour, child labour, and unsafe working conditions.

We conduct regular assessments and due diligence to ensure that our sub-contractors and third-party suppliers meet these standards. Failure to comply results in corrective action, including potential termination of contracts.

Human Rights Policy

At Intelligent Marketing t/a I Am Green, we are committed to upholding and respecting human rights in all aspects of our operations. Our policies align with national legislation and international human rights standards, including the South African Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Our Human Rights Commitments:

Fair Labor Practices: We ensure that all employees work in a safe, inclusive, and fair environment. We strictly adhere to the regulations of South Africa’s Labour Laws, offering fair wages, reasonable working hours, and promoting work-life balance.
Non-Discrimination: We value diversity and are committed to equal opportunity for all. We do not tolerate discrimination based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, or any other status.
Health and Safety: We prioritize the health and safety of our employees by maintaining strict safety protocols and providing adequate training to minimize workplace hazards.
No Child or Forced Labor: We strictly prohibit the use of child labor or forced labor in our business operations or in our supply chain. We are committed to eradicating modern slavery and human trafficking.
Freedom of Association: We respect the right of employees to join unions, engage in collective bargaining, and voice concerns without fear of retaliation.

Environmental Policy

As a woodworking and promotional product manufacturer, Intelligent Marketing t/a I Am Green is dedicated to sustainable practices that minimize our impact on the environment. We believe in the responsible use of natural resources and continually strive to reduce our carbon footprint.

Our Environmental Commitments:

Sustainable Sourcing: We prioritize the use of sustainably sourced timber and other raw materials. Our suppliers are carefully vetted to ensure they follow responsible forestry practices, including compliance with international standards like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification.
Waste Management: We are committed to reducing waste in all stages of production. We implement recycling and reuse strategies where possible, and our sawdust and wood scraps are repurposed or responsibly disposed of.
Energy Efficiency: We continuously explore energy-saving practices in our manufacturing processes, including the use of energy-efficient machinery and reducing power consumption in our facilities.
Water Conservation: We practice water conservation measures and ensure that our production processes are designed to minimize water usage and prevent contamination.
Reduction of Carbon Footprint: We aim to minimize greenhouse gas emissions by optimizing transportation logistics, using eco-friendly packaging, and encouraging low-emission operations.
Environmental Awareness: We are dedicated to educating our team and stakeholders about sustainable practices and regularly reviewing our environmental strategies to ensure continued improvement.

Zero Tolerance

Exploitation and Abuse: We have a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of worker exploitation, including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, harassment, or intimidation. Any reported instance of abuse is thoroughly investigated, and immediate corrective actions, including termination, are taken against offenders.
Human Trafficking and Forced Labor: We strictly prohibit human trafficking and any form of forced labor, including bonded labor or coercion of employees to work against their will. Any evidence of forced labor results in immediate contract termination with the responsible parties and legal action, where applicable.
Bribery and Corruption: Our zero-tolerance stance on bribery and corruption extends to all our business dealings. Any employee or supplier found engaging in corrupt practices, including the exchange of bribes or kickbacks, faces immediate dismissal and potential prosecution.
Unsafe Working Conditions: We will not tolerate unsafe working conditions. Any willful neglect of health and safety standards by employees, management, or suppliers, which puts workers at risk, results in immediate intervention and possible suspension of operations until compliance is restored.
Environmental Degradation: We enforce a zero-tolerance policy on actions that lead to environmental harm, including illegal logging, pollution, or improper waste disposal. Suppliers violating environmental laws are removed from our supply chain immediately, and we ensure legal steps are taken to address the violation.

International Standards

Our human rights and environmental policies are aligned with credible international standards, including:

Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) Base Code: Our policies adhere to principles such as the prohibition of forced labor, ensuring fair wages, and promoting non-discrimination, all of which are core elements of the ETI Base Code.
United Nations (UN) Conventions: We are committed to upholding human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and relevant UN Conventions that protect labor rights, health, and safety standards.
International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions: Our labor practices are guided by key ILO Conventions, including those related to the elimination of child labor, forced labor, and discrimination, as well as promoting the right to collective bargaining.
UN Global Compact: We support the principles of the UN Global Compact, which focuses on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. Our environmental policies reflect a commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices, in line with this framework.

Human Rights Management Procedures

Animal Welfare:
We source materials in a way that ensures no harm to animals and avoid using animal-based products where possible. Suppliers must comply with ethical treatment of animals.
Annual Leave & Public Holidays:
Employees are entitled to annual leave and public holidays in accordance with South African labor laws, ensuring work-life balance and rest periods.
Anti-bribery, Corruption & Presentation of False Information:
We enforce strict anti-corruption policies and regularly train staff and suppliers on ethical business practices, with zero tolerance for bribery or false information.
Child Labour:
We have procedures in place to ensure no child labor is used in our business or supply chain. We require suppliers to provide documentation proving compliance.
Contracts & Terms of Employment:
All employees have formal contracts that outline fair terms of employment, including working hours, wages, and benefits. These contracts are compliant with labor laws.
Discrimination:
We implement a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or other factors. Complaints are addressed through formal grievance procedures.
Diversity & Inclusion:
Our hiring and workplace culture promote diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Equal Pay:
We are committed to providing equal pay for equal work, ensuring wage parity regardless of gender, ethnicity, or other factors.
Forced & Bonded Labour:
Our procedures prohibit any form of forced or bonded labor, with routine audits of our supply chain to ensure compliance.
Foreign & Migrant Labour:
We ensure that foreign and migrant workers are treated fairly, with equal rights to pay, working conditions, and legal protections.
Freedom of Association, Right to Organise & Collective Bargaining:
We respect employees' rights to join unions, engage in collective bargaining, and organize without fear of retaliation.
Harassment & Abuse:
We have clear policies and procedures to prevent harassment and abuse in the workplace. Any violations are handled through a transparent disciplinary process.
Health & Safety:
Comprehensive health and safety measures are in place to ensure a safe working environment. We regularly assess and improve safety standards.
Living Conditions/Dormitories:
Where applicable, we ensure that worker dormitories meet health and safety standards, providing clean and safe living spaces.
Maternity Rights & Parental Leave:
We provide maternity and parental leave in line with legal requirements, ensuring the protection of employees' family rights.
Notice Period, Dismissal & Disciplinary Action:
All employment contracts include clear terms on notice periods, dismissal, and disciplinary actions, compliant with labor regulations.
Overtime Pay:
Overtime is compensated in accordance with labor laws, ensuring fair pay for extra work.
Wages & Financial Benefits:
Employees receive fair wages, bonuses, and access to benefits like social security and pensions, as stipulated in their contracts.

Environmental Management Procedures

Biodiversity:
We implement sustainable sourcing practices to protect local ecosystems and biodiversity. We avoid deforestation and work with suppliers that follow eco-friendly harvesting methods.
Energy & Carbon Emissions:
We monitor and reduce our energy consumption and carbon emissions through the use of energy-efficient equipment and sustainable practices.
Waste & Recycling (Packaging/Office/Facility/Retail):
We have systems in place to recycle packaging and waste from our office and facilities. All recyclable materials are separated and sent to appropriate recycling centers.
Waste & Recycling (Product/Textiles):
We reduce waste by recycling materials during production and repurposing waste into secondary products, where applicable.
Water Effluents & Treatment:
We ensure that our production processes minimize water pollution, and we implement water treatment procedures to meet environmental regulations.
Water Usage & Footprint:
We actively work to reduce our water footprint by monitoring water use and implementing conservation practices.

Supply Chain Management Procedures

Restricted Substance List:
We ensure compliance with any restricted substances list, both in raw materials and finished products, and require our suppliers to follow these guidelines.
Sub-contracting, Outsourcing & Homeworkers:
Sub-contractors and outsourced workers are held to the same human rights and environmental standards as our direct employees. We monitor their compliance through regular audits.
Working Hours & Rest Breaks:
We adhere to regulations on working hours and ensure that all employees receive sufficient rest breaks to maintain their health and well-being.

materiality assessment process

Our company uses a structured materiality assessment process to identify the most significant human rights and environmental aspects and impacts of our operations. The process involves the following steps:
Stakeholder Engagement:
We engage with key stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, customers, and local communities, to gather input on what human rights and environmental issues they consider most important. This includes surveys, interviews, and regular communication channels.
Risk and Impact Analysis:
We conduct internal assessments to evaluate the potential risks and impacts of our operations on human rights and the environment. This includes analyzing:
Labor conditions within our own operations and our supply chain.
Environmental impacts such as energy use, water consumption, and waste generation.
Compliance with local and international labor and environmental laws.
Benchmarking Against Industry Standards:
We benchmark our practices against recognized international standards, such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, ILO conventions, and environmental guidelines like ISO14001, to ensure we meet or exceed best practices.
Prioritization of Issues:
Based on stakeholder feedback and risk assessments, we prioritize the most material issues by evaluating their potential impact on our business, the environment, and affected communities. These issues typically include:
Worker rights and fair labor practices.
Environmental sustainability (resource consumption, waste, and carbon emissions).
Health and safety in the workplace.
Implementation and Monitoring:
Once the most material issues are identified, we develop action plans to address them. This includes setting clear goals, implementing relevant policies and practices, and continuously monitoring our progress through internal audits and regular reviews.
Continuous Improvement:
Our materiality assessment is an ongoing process. We regularly revisit and update our assessments to ensure we remain aligned with evolving stakeholder expectations, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

strategic plan
improving environmental impacts

We have developed a strategic plan aimed at progressively improving our human rights and environmental impacts. This plan serves as a roadmap for our commitments and outlines measurable, time-bound goals to ensure accountability and progress. Key components of our strategic plan include:

Strategic Goals and Commitments

Human Rights Improvements:
Goal: Achieve 100% compliance with labor rights standards across our supply chain by 2026.
Action: Conduct annual audits and provide training to suppliers on ethical labor practices.
Environmental Sustainability:
Goal: Reduce our carbon emissions by 30% by 2028.
Action: Implement energy-efficient practices and invest in renewable energy sources within our operations.
Waste Management:
Goal: Achieve a 50% reduction in waste sent to landfills by 2025.
Action: Enhance our recycling programs and explore opportunities for upcycling materials in our production process.
Water Conservation:
Goal: Reduce water usage by 25% by 2027.
Action: Implement water-saving technologies and practices in our manufacturing processes.

Monitoring and Reporting

Measurable Targets: Each goal includes specific, quantifiable metrics to assess our progress. We commit to publishing annual progress reports that detail our achievements and challenges.
Long-Term Vision: Our vision document outlines our commitment to upholding human rights and environmental stewardship as integral components of our business strategy, ensuring sustainability for future generations.

Future Dates

We will review and update our strategic plan annually to incorporate stakeholder feedback and adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities in the human rights and environmental landscape.

strategic plan improving human rights

Strategic Vision and Goals

Human Rights Enhancements:
Goal: Ensure that 100% of our suppliers adhere to our human rights standards by 2026.Actions:
Conduct annual supplier assessments and audits.
Provide training programs for suppliers on ethical labor practices and human rights compliance.
Goal: Establish a grievance mechanism for employees and stakeholders by the end of 2025.Actions:
Develop and implement a clear process for reporting human rights concerns.
Ensure that reported issues are addressed promptly and effectively.
Environmental Sustainability:
Goal: Achieve a 25% reduction in carbon emissions across our operations by 2028.Actions:
Transition to renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency in our manufacturing processes.
Implement waste reduction strategies, aiming for a 50% decrease in waste sent to landfills by 2027.
Goal: Enhance water conservation efforts to reduce water consumption by 20% by 2026.Actions:
Implement water-saving technologies and best practices in production.

Monitoring and Accountability

Measurable Commitments: Each goal includes specific targets and KPIs to track our progress and effectiveness.
Annual Reporting: We commit to publishing an annual sustainability report that details our progress towards these goals, including successes, challenges, and adjustments made to our strategies.

Long-Term Vision

Our vision document serves as a guide for integrating human rights and environmental considerations into our business operations. We aim to cultivate a culture of responsibility, transparency, and continuous improvement across all levels of the organization.

Future Dates:

We will review and update our strategic plan annually, incorporating stakeholder feedback and addressing emerging challenges in the human rights and environmental landscape.

Waste disposal

Waste Segregation

Separation at Source: We practice waste segregation at the point of generation to facilitate recycling and minimize contamination. Waste is categorized into different streams, such as recyclables, hazardous waste, organic waste, and general waste.

Recycling and Reuse

Recycling Programs: We actively participate in recycling programs for materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals. We partner with certified recycling facilities to ensure that recyclable materials are processed appropriately.
Material Reuse: Where feasible, we aim to reuse materials within our operations. This includes repurposing wood scraps and other materials in production or for creative projects, reducing the amount of waste generated.

Hazardous Waste Management

Proper Handling: We have procedures in place for the safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste, such as chemicals or other materials that pose a risk to health and the environment. This includes working with licensed hazardous waste disposal companies to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Employee Training: Employees are trained in hazardous waste management practices to ensure that they understand the proper procedures for handling and disposing of such materials safely.

Organic Waste Management

Composting: We implement composting programs for organic waste generated in our facilities, diverting food scraps and other biodegradable materials from landfills. This compost is used for landscaping or shared with local community gardens.

General Waste Disposal

Landfill Minimization: We strive to minimize the amount of general waste sent to landfills. Any waste that cannot be recycled, reused, or composted is disposed of through licensed waste management services that comply with local regulations.
Regular Monitoring: We regularly monitor our waste disposal practices to assess their effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.

Whistleblowing Policy

1. Overview:

Our company is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. To support this commitment, we have implemented a comprehensive whistleblowing policy that encourages employees, contractors, and stakeholders to report any concerns related to unethical behavior, misconduct, or violations of laws and regulations without fear of retaliation.

2. Policy Objectives:

The primary objectives of our whistleblowing policy are to:
- Provide a safe and confidential channel for reporting concerns.
- Ensure that all reports are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.
- Protect whistleblowers from retaliation or adverse consequences for making reports in good faith.
- Promote an organizational culture that values integrity, ethical behavior, and accountability.

3. Reporting Mechanisms:

Employees and stakeholders can report concerns through multiple channels:
- Anonymous Reporting: We provide an anonymous reporting hotline and online platform where individuals can submit concerns without disclosing their identity.
- Direct Reporting: Concerns can also be reported directly to designated management representatives or the Human Resources department.

4. Investigation Process:

All reported concerns will be investigated promptly and fairly. The investigation process includes:
- Acknowledgment of receipt of the report.
- A thorough investigation conducted by a designated team, ensuring confidentiality and impartiality.
- Appropriate actions taken based on the findings, which may include disciplinary measures or corrective actions.

5. Protection for Whistleblowers:

Our policy explicitly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith. This includes protection against harassment, discrimination, or adverse employment actions.

6. Policy Communication and Training:

We communicate our whistleblowing policy to all employees and provide training on its importance and procedures. This ensures that everyone is aware of their rights and responsibilities in reporting concerns.

7. Continuous Improvement:

We regularly review and update our whistleblowing policy to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws and best practices.

Health and Safety Training Provision

1. Commitment to Health and Safety:

Our company is dedicated to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees, contractors, and stakeholders. We recognize that effective health and safety training is crucial in preventing workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses.

2. Training Program Overview:

We offer a comprehensive health and safety training program that covers various aspects of workplace safety and compliance with local and international regulations. Our training program includes the following components:

3. Training Content:

Induction Training: All new employees undergo a health and safety induction program, which covers:
Company health and safety policies and procedures.
Emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and first aid protocols.
Reporting mechanisms for hazards or incidents.
Job-Specific Training: Employees receive training tailored to their specific roles and responsibilities, including:
Safe operating procedures for machinery and equipment.
Handling hazardous materials and chemicals safely.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements and usage.
Regular Safety Refresher Courses: To ensure ongoing awareness and compliance, we conduct regular refresher training sessions, covering:
Updates on health and safety regulations and best practices.
Review of incident reports and lessons learned.
Emergency response drills and simulations.

4. Training Delivery Methods:

Our training is delivered through a variety of methods to accommodate different learning styles, including:
In-Person Workshops: Interactive sessions led by qualified health and safety trainers.
Online Training Modules: E-learning platforms for flexible access to training resources and assessments.
On-the-Job Training: Hands-on training conducted in real work environments under the supervision of experienced personnel.

5. Assessment and Evaluation:

Participants in our training programs are assessed through:
Quizzes and practical demonstrations to evaluate their understanding of health and safety practices.
Feedback surveys to gather insights on the training effectiveness and areas for improvement.

6. Record Keeping and Compliance:

We maintain detailed records of all health and safety training provided, including attendance, course content, and assessment results. This documentation ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and enables us to track employee training progress.

7. Continuous Improvement:

We regularly review and update our health and safety training program based on:
Changes in regulations or industry standards.
Feedback from employees and safety audits.
Incident reports and investigations to identify training gaps.

8. Health and Safety Culture:

Our commitment to health and safety extends beyond training; we actively promote a culture of safety through:
Encouraging open communication regarding safety concerns.
Recognizing and rewarding employees for demonstrating safe practices.
Engaging employees in safety committees and initiatives.

Living Wages in the Supply Chain

1. Commitment to Living Wages:

Our company is committed to ensuring that all workers in our supply chain receive fair and sustainable wages that meet or exceed the local living wage standards. We recognize that paying living wages is essential for the well-being of workers and their families, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable economy.

2. Credible Processes for Wage Assessment:

To achieve this commitment, we utilize credible methodologies and standards to assess and benchmark wages within our supply chain. Our approach includes the following components:
Wage Benchmarking:
- We utilize established methodologies, such as:
  - Anker Methodology: To calculate living wages based on the cost of living and essential needs in different regions.
  - Asia Floor Wage: To establish a wage standard that meets basic needs and allows workers to live with dignity.
  - CREA PP Methodologies: For assessing fair wages in the context of gender equality and worker rights.

3. Implementation and Monitoring:

Our company implements the following strategies to ensure the payment of living wages throughout our supply chain:
- Supplier Engagement: We engage with our suppliers to communicate our commitment to living wages, encouraging them to adopt similar practices and methodologies.
- Wage Assessments: We conduct regular wage assessments in collaboration with our suppliers to evaluate their compliance with living wage standards and identify any gaps.
- Training and Support: We provide training and resources to our suppliers to help them understand and implement living wage practices effectively.

4. Reporting and Transparency:

We disclose our approach to achieving living wages through our annual sustainability or corporate social responsibility reports, highlighting:
- Our progress in implementing living wage initiatives.
- Case studies of suppliers who have successfully adopted living wage practices.
- Any challenges faced and our strategies to overcome them.

5. Continuous Improvement:

We are committed to continuously improving our approach by:
- Regularly reviewing and updating our wage policies and practices based on feedback from stakeholders and changes in living wage standards.
- Engaging in dialogue with workers and their representatives to ensure their voices are heard in the wage-setting process.

Innovation for Sustainability in Our Business

1. Sustainable Product Design:

We employ innovative design techniques to create products that minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. Our design process includes:
Eco-Design Principles: Integrating sustainability into the design phase, focusing on materials that are renewable, biodegradable, or recyclable.
Modular Designs: Creating products that can be easily disassembled for repair, refurbishment, or recycling, thus extending their lifecycle.

2. Advanced Manufacturing Techniques:

Our manufacturing processes incorporate cutting-edge technologies to reduce environmental impacts:
CNC Machining: Utilizing Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to optimize material usage, reducing waste during production.

3. Sustainable Materials Sourcing:

We innovate in our sourcing of materials by prioritizing:
Sustainable Timber: Collaborating with certified suppliers who provide sustainably harvested wood, ensuring compliance with environmental standards such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
Recycled Materials: Researching and utilizing recycled or upcycled materials in our products to reduce the demand for virgin resources.

4. Waste Reduction Strategies:

Our waste management practices are designed to foster innovation and minimize landfill contributions:
Zero Waste Initiatives: Developing processes that aim for zero waste in our operations by repurposing scrap materials and promoting recycling.

5. Employee Engagement and Training:

We foster a culture of innovation and sustainability among our employees through:
Sustainability Workshops: Regular training sessions that encourage employees to propose innovative ideas for improving sustainability practices within their roles.

6. Community Partnerships and Collaboration:

We actively engage with local communities and organizations to promote sustainability:
Collaborative Projects: Partnering with local NGOs and academic institutions to develop and implement sustainability projects that benefit both the community and the environment.
Knowledge Sharing: Participating in industry forums and networks to share best practices and learn from others' experiences in sustainable innovation.

Innovation in Our Operations

1. Innovation in Equipment:

Advanced Machinery: We invest in state-of-the-art woodworking equipment that utilizes precision technology, such as CNC routers and laser cutters. These machines enhance production efficiency and reduce material waste by ensuring accurate cuts and optimized material usage.

2. Innovation to Support Worker Development:

Skill Development Programs: We offer continuous training and development programs that incorporate innovative learning methods. This methodology allows workers to practice skills in a safe environment, enhancing their proficiency and confidence.
Mentorship and Coaching: Our company fosters a culture of innovation through mentorship programs where experienced employees guide newer staff. This approach not only helps transfer knowledge but also encourages creative problem-solving and collaboration.
Feedback Mechanisms: We implement innovative digital platforms for collecting employee feedback on processes and working conditions. These platforms facilitate open communication, allowing workers to contribute ideas for improvement and participate in decision-making.

3. Innovation in Technology:

Integrated Management Systems: We utilize advanced software solutions to integrate our supply chain, production management, and inventory systems. This innovation improves operational efficiency and allows for data analysis, helping us make informed decisions quickly.
Collaboration Tools: We leverage collaboration technologies that allow teams to work together seamlessly, regardless of their physical location. This includes project management software and communication platforms that enhance teamwork and innovation in problem-solving.