Association of Applied IPM Ecologists

AAIE Code of Ethics

The profession of applied insect ecology is vital to environmental and economic considerations involved in pest management decision making. Professional members of our organization have the position and authority to render effective service to humanity by recommending ecologically sound solutions to problems.
The AAIE has established the following code to define professional conduct and ethics binding on its professional members. A professional recognizes that this code of ethics signifies a voluntary compliance above and beyond the requirements of the law and will endeavor to uphold the honor and merit of the profession.

Code of Ethics

Obligations to Society and the Environment

The professional will sustain the laws of the community and bears particular responsibility for the development of sound public policy based on biological and ecological principles. In fulfilling these goals, the professional will:

Strive to utilize methods and ideas that will minimize ecological disruption and maintain the health of the environment.
Not give professional opinion or recommendations without being as thoroughly informed as might reasonably be expected considering the purpose for which it is desired.
Not issue a false statement or information.
Have proper regard for the safety, health and welfare of the public in the performance of professional duties.
Be honest and preface one-sided statements and criticisms by indicating on whose behalf they are made.

Obligations To Client / Employer

The professional protects the client's interests, works to stimulate the acquisition of knowledge and understanding and discloses complete information concerning services. In fulfilling these goals, the professional will:

Correct conditions or resign when obligations to client and the law or profession are at conflict.
Not divulge information received in confidence.
Only accept assignments for which the professional is qualified.
Disclose any financial benefit to the professional from a person, material, device or concept involved in a project.
Indicate to the client the ecological consequences of recommendations and include long-term solutions to problems.
Act fairly and justly toward vendors and contractors and select products and services based on merit and value.

Obligations to the Profession

The professional will strive to raise professional standards, improve service and to promote a climate which attracts persons worthy of trust to careers as professional ecologists. In fulfilling these goals, the professional will:

Cooperate with other professionals by exchanging information and encourage the ethical dissemination of knowledge.
Give credit for work to whom it is due.
Not intentionally injure the reputation, prospects or practice of other professionals.
Defend the prestige of the profession and uphold this Code of ethics by precept and example and encourage, by counsel and advice, other professionals to do the same.