Code of ethics

1. Purpose: The North Carolina Shark Conservancy (NCSC) is committed to conducting research, education, and community engagement with integrity, transparency, and respect for the marine environment and the people who help protect it. This Code of Ethics outlines the principles that guide our actions, decisions, and relationships as we work to advance shark conservation across North Carolina and beyond.
2. Commitment to Scientific Integrity: We conduct research with honesty, accuracy, and accountability. We do not manipulate, misrepresent, or selectively report data to influence outcomes.
3. Respect for Wildlife and the Marine Environment: We prioritize the health, safety, and dignity of all sharks and marine species encountered during research, rescue, necropsy, and educational activities. We uphold all federal and state laws governing the handling, sampling, and transport of marine wildlife. We actively work to minimize stress, harm, and disturbance in both living and deceased animals.
4. Community Partnership & Collaboration: We recognize that meaningful conservation requires a collaborative, statewide effort. We work openly with fishermen, divers, beachgoers, scientists, educators, government agencies, and partner organizations. We approach all community stakeholders with humility, respect, and a willingness to listen.
5. Transparency & Accountability: We are open and honest about our mission, methods, finances, fundraising efforts, partnerships, and research practices.
6. Equity, Inclusion & Respect: We foster a culture where staff, volunteers, partners, and community members feel welcomed, valued, and respected—regardless of identity, background, or experience level. We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, bullying, or exclusionary behavior.
7. Safety & Professional Conduct: We follow all safety protocols during fieldwork, necropsies, community events, and laboratory operations. We are responsible stewards of conservancy property, equipment, and resources.
8. Ethical Communications: We communicate science accurately and responsibly to the public, avoiding sensationalism, fear-based messaging, or misleading claims. We respect the privacy of individuals who report strandings, contribute data, or engage with our programs. We seek consent before sharing photos, information, or stories involving community members. We represent the Conservancy truthfully and do not speak on behalf of partner organizations without permission.
9. Stewardship of Donations & Funding: We use financial and in-kind donations responsibly and in alignment with donor intent and our mission. We ensure fundraising practices are transparent, honest, and compliant with all legal requirements. We acknowledge donations appropriately and maintain donor confidentiality unless disclosure is approved.
10. Commitment to Continuous Improvement: We evaluate our programs, protocols, and partnerships regularly to ensure they align with best practices in science, conservation, nonprofit management, and community engagement. We embrace innovation and remain open to adapting our approaches to better serve North Carolina’s sharks and coastal communities.