Code of Conduct

Applies to: All Shimber employees, management, board members, investors, contractors, and business partners.

1. Introduction

Shimber exists to prove that beauty and responsibility can co-exist. We design coatings that replace synthetic pigments and plastics with bio-based innovation.

This Code of Conduct is not just a set of rules. It is a shared promise about how we show up for each other, for our partners, and for the planet. It reflects our belief that the choices we make today shape the world we will live in tomorrow.

Every decision we make leaves a mark. We choose to make ours a good one — thoughtful, transparent, and rooted in values that last. Whether in the studio, in the lab, or in the field, we act with the same intention: to create a material future that is as ethical as it is extraordinary.

2. Our Commitment to People

Human Rights

We believe that design without dignity is not good design. We respect and uphold internationally recognised human rights, including:

  • The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
  • The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
  • The International Labour Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, covering:
    • Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining.
    • The elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour.
    • The effective abolition of child labour.
    • The elimination of discrimination in employment and occupation.
    • The right to a safe and healthy working environment.

We expect the same commitment from all our partners, suppliers, and collaborators.

Health, Safety & Well-being

We work best when we work well. That means:

  • Prioritising safety, both physical and psychological.
  • Respecting time for rest, recovery, and balance.
  • Encouraging open conversations about workload and well-being.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As a female-led, interdisciplinary team, we actively foster inclusive work environments and prioritise diverse voices across design, science, and business.
We:

  • Treat everyone equally and fairly.
  • Work continuously towards an inclusive workplace with high engagement.
  • Prohibit discrimination on any basis, including ethnicity, nationality, language, religion, belief, marital status, disability, political view, gender, sexual orientation, or age.
  • Actively recognise and address unconscious bias in our decisions.

Anti-Discrimination & Harassment

Kindness is a strength. Disrespect, harassment, or discrimination have no place here. We always treat colleagues, clients, and partners with dignity.

3. Our Commitment to the Environment

Sustainability is not a side project. It is the core of our innovation. Our iridescent coating is made entirely from wood, eliminating synthetic pigments and microplastics — two major pollutants in traditional surface treatments. We are committed to:

  • Zero Pigments, Zero Microplastics – Our colours come from structure, not chemicals. The colour we create is free from synthetic pigments and plastics.
  • Circular & Biobased – Our raw materials are renewable, traceable, and designed for minimal end-of-life impact, supporting circular material flows.
  • Low-Carbon Manufacturing – We use low-energy production methods and, whenever possible, coat locally to reduce transport emissions.
  • Partnership for the Planet – We work only with suppliers and collaborators who share our environmental values and ambitions.

4. Responsible Business Conduct & Governance

Responsible Innovation

We manage our intellectual property in a way that balances open collaboration with long-term positive impact. We prioritise ethical sourcing, fair business practices, and clear stakeholder communication.

Fair Practices

Our relationships are built on trust:

  • We follow the law in every market we operate in.
  • We have zero tolerance for corruption, bribery, or dishonest behaviour.
  • We identify and declare conflicts of interest immediately.

Gifts & Hospitality

Generosity is welcome. Influence is not. Meals or hospitality are fine when modest, occasional, and free of any expectation.

Privacy & Confidentiality

  • We respect the privacy of our people, clients, and collaborators.
  • We protect personal data and confidential information with the highest care.
  • We safeguard our intellectual property and respect that of others.

5. Social Responsibility

We believe materials tell stories and those stories should be worth sharing.

  • Creative Empowerment – We collaborate with artists, designers, and architects to offer materials that are sustainable without compromising on creative expression.
  • Transparency & Education – Through partnerships and public engagement, we aim to demystify material science and raise awareness around sustainable alternatives.
  • We invest in ideas that benefit both people and planet.

6. Speaking Up & Accountability

If something doesn’t feel right, we want to hear it.

  • Concerns can be raised with your manager, a colleague, or directly with leadership.
  • No one will face retaliation for speaking up in good faith.
  • Breaches of this Code will be reviewed fairly and transparently and may result in disciplinary action.

7. Our Promise

By working with Shimber, you commit to acting with integrity, care, and responsibility. Together, we are shaping a material future that is as ethical as it is extraordinary.



Helsinki, August 1st, 2025
Signed by the Founders:

Monika Nars, CEO
Noora Yau
Anna Semi
Konrad Klockars