Whistleblower Policy

EcoPlanet Bamboo Group is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical behavior, as outlined in our Code of Ethics. It is crucial to act when these values are threatened, as illegal and unethical activities can cause significant harm to our organization, people, and the environment. This Whistleblower Policy aims to encourage and enable employees, contractors, suppliers, and stakeholders to report any unethical or illegal conduct without fear of retaliation.

Definition of Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing involves alerting a third party that someone has done, is doing, or is about to do something wrong. By reporting misconduct, you alert the organization to potential or actual harm to the organization and/or its stakeholders. Misconduct can be reported when it has occurred, is occurring, or is likely to occur. Prompt reporting increases the chances of mitigating any possible damage, including harm to EcoPlanet’s integrity and reputation.

Reportable Conduct

EcoPlanet Bamboo Group encourages reporting of any suspected unethical or illegal conduct, including but not limited to:

• Violations of laws, regulations, or company policies
• Fraud, corruption, or bribery
• Health and safety violations
• Environmental harm or non-compliance
• Human rights violations
• Misuse of company assets
• Conflicts of interest
• Any other unethical behavior

Good Faith Reporting

Reports should be made in good faith, meaning you must have reasonable grounds to suspect the misconduct and believe that your allegations are substantially true. It is against company policy to make false allegations or those based on improper motives. Disciplinary actions may be imposed for reports not made in good faith.

Reporting Mechanisms

Employees and other stakeholders are encouraged to report concerns through the following channels:

• Immediate Supervisor or Line Manager: Report concerns initially to your immediate supervisor or line manager.
• Alternative Reporting: If you are uncomfortable reporting to your supervisor or if the concern involves your supervisor, you may report directly to:
  • General Manager
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Any member of the Corporate team

Confidentiality

All reports will be handled confidentially to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct a thorough investigation. The identity of the whistleblower will be kept confidential unless disclosure is necessary for the investigation or required by law.

Protection Against Retaliation

EcoPlanet Bamboo Group strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports suspected unethical or illegal conduct. Retaliation can include dismissal, demotion, suspension, harassment, or any other form of discrimination. Any employee who retaliates against a whistleblower will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Information Required When Whistleblowing

When making a report, please provide as much detail as possible, including:

• The specific alleged wrongdoing
• Where and when (dates and times, if available)
• Who was involved
• How the individual(s) or company(ies) committed the act
• Why you believe the activity is improper
• You are not expected to prove the truth of an allegation but must show sufficient grounds for your concerns.

Investigation Process

• Acknowledgment: The designated manager will acknowledge receipt of a report within five business days.
• Review and Assessment: The report will be reviewed to determine the appropriate course of action, which may include an internal investigation or referral to external authorities.
• Investigation: An impartial and thorough investigation will be conducted, and findings will be documented.
• Resolution: The whistleblower will be informed of the investigation outcome, to the extent appropriate and possible.

Managers’ Responsibilities

As a manager within EcoPlanet Bamboo, you may receive reports of misconduct or be approached for guidance. Your duties include:

• Explaining that you cannot provide independent advice or speak "off the record"
• Respecting the reporting person’s confidentiality if requested and only disclosing their identity to the General Manager or COO when necessary

Communication and Training

EcoPlanet Bamboo Group will ensure all employees and stakeholders are aware of this Whistleblower Policy and the mechanisms for reporting concerns. Regular training will reinforce the importance of ethical conduct and the protection of whistleblowers.

Contact Information

For any questions or additional information regarding this Whistleblower Policy, please contact your General Manager.