Commentaries to the Guidelines for Practice of the AIC

>Adherence to a Code of Ethics is one of the primary tenets of any profession. While the creation of such a Code may be accomplished by a group, it is the responsibility of all individuals in that group to "promote understanding of and adherence to this Code of Ethics" (Code of Ethics, XII). This is a fundamental responsibility owed by each individual to their colleagues. A code of ethics can only be effective when individuals within a profession take personal responsibility for its implementation.

A. Rationale

• Adherence to the Code of Ethics:
  • Helps to make effective a mutually agreed upon set of standards of professional conduct.
  • Provides a basis for ethical practice by conservation professionals.
• Widespread adherence to the Code of Ethics provides a level of confidence in the profession that promotes beneficial interactions with allied professionals and the public.

B. Minimum Accepted Practice

• The conservation professional must read the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice, along with the accompanying Commentaries, and be aware of the relevance to their practice.

• The Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice must be followed if the practice of the conservation professional is to be considered ethical.

• All conservation professionals should adhere to Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.

• The conservation professional should familiarize allied professionals and the public with the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.

• The conservation professional should, within the provisions of the By-laws of AIC and the Code of Ethics, continue to evaluate the Code of Ethics, Guidelines for Practice, and especially the Commentaries.

• Under special circumstances, strict adherence to the Code of Ethics, Guidelines for Practice and the Commentaries may not be possible, but the actions of the conservation professional must remain consistent with the intent of these documents. Examples of such situations are identified in the "Special Practices" sections of the commentaries that follow.