Ethics and integrity

For IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute, our independence is fundamental to the entire operation. This independence is guaranteed by our ownership structure, a foundation that was formed jointly by the state and the business sector. IVL was established with the task of supplying independent and credible decision-making data that all parties can rely on.

The main Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) we work with is SDG 16, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (targets 16.5 and 16.6). Credibility is one of our most important core values, where our independent position allows us to deliver results that provide sustainability benefits for our customers.

CODE OF CONDUCT Our employees are our most important resource, and it is important for us to act ethically and responsibly in our work and our relationships.

As a basis for this, IVL has had a code of conduct for many years, based on the UN Global Compact’s ten principles and on IVL’s values. This applies to all IVL employees and board members, and governs IVL’s conduct towards employees, customers, suppliers, business partners and other stakeholders. The introduction of new employees includes a review of what the code of conduct means and how it is applied. The code of conduct has been updated in 2021, and training has been carried out for employees.

In connection with the code of conduct, IVL has a whistleblower function. This provides employees with a communication channel to raise suspicions of possible violations of the code of conduct, both internally and externally. Through this system, IVL provides its employees with the opportunity to submit reports, where the right to remain anonymous and not risk repercussions is guaranteed. No reports were received in 2021.

RISK ASSESSMENT IVL’s management conducts ongoing assessments of risks related to the company’s operations. This includes risks relating to corruption, human rights, working conditions and the environment. Risk assessments are also an integral part of IVL’s project process and are carried out in conjunction with tenders and applications. The aim is to pick up on possible risks associated with projects, identify actions and decide whether IVL can carry out the assignment based on our code of conduct and our core principles of credibility and independence.

Credibility is one of our most important core values, where our independent position allows us to deliver results that provide sustainability benefits for our customers.