ATBC Code of Conduct

Abstract

As tropical biology continues to grow in international participation and cultural diversity, it becomes increasingly important to be attentive to ensuring that our professional spaces are welcoming, respectful, and safe for all members. The Association for Tropical Biology and Conservation (ATBC) supports safe, respectful spaces, contributing to creative and innovative thinking, allowing for diverse solutions and growth. Beyond its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, the organization has also formalized codes to establish fundamental norms that protect members from harassment and other misbehaviors. This document is the product of a collective effort, testifying to the commitment of ATBC members to constructing a complete code. In 2019, Krista McGuire, chair of the DEI committee until the beginning of 2020, developed the first draft of the Code of Ethics. This document was employed as a basis for the next DEI committee to start developing a Code of Conduct in April 2020. The Code of Conduct is meant to establish the best practices for everyone to have safe spaces and to serve as a guideline for the expected behavior of a person who participates in any activity organized by the association (in-person or virtual). The code went through multiple rounds of revision by the DEI committee and the Association Leadership, was approved by the ATBC Council in 2022, and shared publicly during the ATBC 2022 in Cartagena, Colombia. By publishing the code in Biotropica, we aim to make the ATBC Code of Conduct more broadly available so other institutions and associations can use it as inspiration to strengthen their own policies. This code highlights conduct expected to maintain professional integrity, enhance cultural sensitivities, and contribute to the collective effect of tropical biology and conservation.