Human Rights & Responsible Business Policy

Cope Design Company is committed to respecting and upholding internationally recognized human rights standards across our operations and partnerships. Our approach is guided by global frameworks including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, core International Labour Organization conventions, and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

 

Protection of Children & Freedom from Child Labor

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward child labor in any form. We strictly prohibit the employment of individuals below the minimum legal working age as defined by applicable local laws or international standards, whichever provides greater protection.

We are committed to safeguarding the rights, well-being, and development of children. This includes ensuring that no child is exposed to hazardous work, exploitative conditions, or any activity that interferes with their education, health, safety, or moral development.

We expect all suppliers, contractors, and business partners to implement robust age-verification processes, maintain accurate employment records, and comply fully with applicable child labor laws and international conventions. Where any instance of child labor is identified, we require immediate remediation that prioritizes the best interests of the child.

 

Labor & Human Dignity

We oppose all forms of forced labor, modern slavery, debt bondage, and human trafficking.

We support freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, in accordance with applicable laws. We are committed to providing safe and healthy working conditions, maintaining appropriate occupational health and safety standards, and operating workplaces that prioritize the physical and mental well-being of all individuals.

We prohibit discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in any form. Our business promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring fair treatment regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

We support fair compensation practices and expect that workers receive at least an appropriate, lawful living wage in accordance with local laws and standards.

 

Environmental Responsibility

We prohibit actions that cause harmful soil change, water pollution, air pollution, harmful noise emissions, or excessive water consumption.

We do not support unlawful eviction or the unauthorized appropriation of land, forests, or water. We respect legally established property rights, land use rights, and community interests.

We prohibit the hiring or use of private or public security forces that may interfere with human rights due to insufficient training, supervision, or control.

We comply with applicable environmental conventions and regulations, including:

• The Minamata Convention on Mercury

• The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)

• The Basel Convention on the control of transboundary movements of hazardous waste

 

Accountability

We expect our vendors, contractors, and business partners to align with these principles. We are committed to conducting due diligence, addressing potential adverse impacts, and taking appropriate corrective action where necessary.

Through these commitments, Cope Design Company aims to operate responsibly, protect human dignity, and safeguard the environment in all aspects of our work.