10 steps policy for choosing co-operators

When choosing new service provider or co-operator we ensure that the activities we choose are sustainable by following a series of steps and principles aimed at minimizing negative environmental, social, and economic impacts, while maximizing positive contributions to the destinations and communities they operate in.

1. Research and Select Sustainable Suppliers: We carefully vet and choose suppliers
(hotels, transportation providers, activity providers, etc.) that demonstrate a
commitment to sustainability. This could include certifications like Green Key for
accommodations or Fair Trade Tourism or Travelife for tour operators.

2. Prioritize Responsible Tourism Practices: We promote and prioritize responsible
tourism practices, such as respecting local cultures and traditions, minimizing waste,
conserving resources, and supporting local economies.

3. Implement Sustainable Transportation: Choose transportation options that are
energy-efficient and have lower environmental impacts. This is part of our sustainable
development goals (mimizing carbon footprint).

4. Support Local Communities: Engage with local communities and ensure that the
economic benefits of tourism are distributed equitably. This could involve hiring local
guides, using locally-owned accommodations and restaurants, and contributing to
community development projects.

5. Offer Educational and Interpretive Experiences: Provide opportunities for travelers to
learn about the natural and cultural heritage of Rovaniemi and the near by areas.
This can foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the environment, which
can lead to more responsible behaviors.

6. Minimize Environmental Impact: Encourage low-impact activities and practices that
minimize harm to the environment. For example, avoiding activities that disturb
wildlife or damage fragile ecosystems.

7. Monitor and Evaluate Performance: We monitor through Travelife and Sustainable
Travel Finland programs the impact of the tours and activities to ensure they align
with sustainability goals. We also gather feedback from travelers, conduct
environmental assessments, and track key performance indicators.

8. Comply with Regulations and Standards: Stay informed about and comply with local,
national, and international regulations related to tourism and environmental
protection. Additionally, consider obtaining certifications or memberships with
recognized sustainability organizations.

9. Promote Responsible Traveler Behavior: Educate travelers about responsible and
sustainable travel practices, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and
respecting local customs and wildlife.

10. Adapt and Innovate: Stay updated with emerging trends and technologies in
sustainable tourism. Embrace innovation and adapt practices to continuously
improve sustainability efforts.

Helios Tour Supplier Code of Conduct
At Helios Tour, we are committed to operating in a responsible, ethical, and sustainable
manner. We expect our suppliers to uphold similar values and adhere to high standards of integrity, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. This Supplier Code of
Conduct outlines the principles and practices we require from all our suppliers to ensure
ethical operations and mutual benefit.

1. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Suppliers must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards in the countries in which they operate.
● Legal Compliance: Suppliers shall adhere to all relevant local, national, and
international laws, including environmental regulations, labor laws, and health and
safety standards.
● Permits and Licenses: Suppliers must ensure that all necessary permits, licenses,
and registrations required by law for their operations are valid and up-to-date.

2. Environmental Responsibility
Helios Tour places a strong emphasis on sustainability, and we expect our suppliers to follow environmentally responsible practices.
● Sustainable Sourcing: Suppliers must prioritize eco-friendly, sustainable materials
and products. They should avoid sourcing materials from unsustainable or
environmentally harmful sources.
● Resource Efficiency: Suppliers are encouraged to use natural resources efficiently
and minimize waste, water, and energy consumption. Sustainable production
processes are highly valued.
● Waste and Emissions Reduction: Suppliers must work to reduce waste, emissions,
and pollution in their operations. Proper waste management and disposal procedures
should be in place.

3. Ethical Labor Practices
Suppliers are expected to provide fair, safe, and non-discriminatory working conditions for their employees.
● Fair Wages and Benefits: Suppliers must provide fair wages, overtime
compensation, and benefits that meet or exceed local legal standards.
● Safe Working Environment: Suppliers must ensure that their workplaces are safe,
healthy, and free from any hazards that could harm employees. This includes
providing proper protective equipment and adhering to safety protocols.
● No Child or Forced Labor: Suppliers must not engage in or support the use of child
labor, forced labor, or any form of human trafficking.
● Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination: Suppliers must not discriminate based
on race, gender, age, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, or disability in their
hiring or employment practices.
● Respect for Workers’ Rights: Suppliers must respect workers’ rights to freedom of
association, collective bargaining, and must not interfere with workers’ legal right to
organize.

4. Business Integrity and Ethics
Helios Tour expects its suppliers to uphold high standards of business ethics and integrity.
● Anti-Corruption: Suppliers must not engage in any form of corruption, bribery, fraud,
or unethical behavior. Business dealings must be conducted transparently and
honestly.
● Fair Competition: Suppliers must engage in fair business practices, avoiding
anti-competitive behavior, price-fixing, or any form of market manipulation.
● Confidentiality: Suppliers must safeguard the confidentiality of any proprietary or
sensitive information shared by Helios Tour and refrain from disclosing it without
consent.

5. Human Rights and Social Responsibility
Suppliers are expected to respect human rights and contribute positively to the communities in which they operate.
● Respect for Human Rights: Suppliers must uphold the principles of human rights,
ensuring that their operations respect the dignity and rights of all individuals affected
by their activities.
● Community Engagement: Suppliers are encouraged to contribute to the
development of local communities through job creation, fair business practices, and
support for community projects.
● Indigenous Rights: Suppliers operating in regions with indigenous populations must
respect their rights, land, culture, and traditions.

6. Monitoring and Compliance
Helios Tour reserves the right to monitor and assess supplier compliance with this Code of Conduct.
● Audits and Assessments: Helios Tour may conduct audits or request
documentation from suppliers to ensure compliance with this Code of Conduct.
Suppliers must be transparent and provide necessary information when requested.
● Corrective Action: If a supplier is found to be in violation of this Code of Conduct,
Helios Tour may request corrective action. Suppliers must promptly address any
issues and take steps to remedy non-compliance.

7. Continuous Improvement
Helios Tour encourages suppliers to continuously seek ways to improve their environmental, social, and ethical practices.
● Innovation for Sustainability: Suppliers are encouraged to explore innovative
solutions that improve sustainability, efficiency, and the overall impact of their
operations.
● Collaboration: Helios Tour is open to working closely with suppliers to share best
practices and explore collaborative opportunities that promote sustainable
development.