Core values for chemists

Chemistry entails responsibility

As a professional association, the KNCV expects its members to apply their knowledge and expertise in a safe, ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible manner. At the same time, our members can expect the KNCV to provide a professional, safe, and inclusive community that embraces diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. These guidelines for conduct articulate our shared responsibility. They outline both what we expect of one another and what the KNCV, as an association, aims to offer and foster.

Theme

What the KNCV expects from its members

What KNCV members can expect

Safety

Members act carefully and responsibly when working with chemical substances and applying chemical knowledge. They take into account the safety of themselves, others, and the environment, and speak up when they identify risks or potentially harmful situations.

The KNCV actively contributes to raising awareness regarding safe and responsible conduct, highlights relevant knowledge and developments, and fosters dialogue on the responsibility of chemists towards people, animals, and the environment.

Sustainability

Members commit themselves, to the best of their ability, to the responsible and sustainable use of raw materials, substances, and chemical processes, while also taking into account the consequences for future generations.

The KNCV fosters knowledge sharing and debate on sustainable chemistry, brings together diverse perspectives, and supports the chemical community in the contribution it can make to a sustainable society.

Professional integrity

Members act honestly, diligently, and in accordance with laws and regulations, professional standards, and societal values. They raise concerns regarding suspected unethical, unsafe, or improper conduct and report such matters to the designated authorities where necessary.

The KNCV fosters a professional culture in which dilemmas can be discussed, conscientious conduct is encouraged, and members can address one another respectfully.

Scientific integrity

Members who conduct or are involved in scientific research act in accordance with the principles of good scientific practice and, where applicable, endorse the tenets of the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Research Integrity.

The KNCV endorses the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Research Integrity and actively promotes the principles enshrined therein within its scientific community.

Respect & inclusion

Members treat one another with respect and contribute to an environment where people—regardless of background, identity, position, career stage, or perspective—can participate fully and make their voices heard. Discrimination, harassment, and exclusion have no place in the KNCV community.

The KNCV strives for a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community in which everyone has equal opportunities to participate, develop, and contribute. The KNCV is mindful of existing barriers and inequalities and works to remove them wherever possible.

Openness & collaboration

Members are open to diverse ideas and perspectives, engage in professional and scientific debate respectfully, and contribute to knowledge sharing and collaboration within the chemical community to the best of their ability.

The KNCV brings together people from diverse disciplines, sectors, educational backgrounds, and career stages, creating space for interaction, dialogue, collaboration, and the free exchange of ideas.