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We, the crew and volunteers working on the documentary film Sweet Crude, have developed this code of ethics for our production by using some existing principles of journalism and assigning some of our own standards. We pledge to this film, all participants and our audience that we will strive to uphold this code at all points in the production of Sweet Crude.

We are committed to these principles:

We will:

• Test the accuracy of information from all sources and exercise care to avoid inadvertent error. Deliberate distortion is never permissible.
• Identify sources whenever feasible. The public is entitled to as much information as possible on sources' reliability.
• Always question sources’ motives before promising anonymity. Clarify conditions attached to any promise made in exchange for information. Keep promises.
• Tell the story of the diversity and magnitude of the human experience boldly, even when it is unpopular to do so.
• Examine our own cultural values and avoid imposing those values on others.
• Avoid stereotyping by race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, geography, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance or social status.
• Support the open exchange of views, even views we find repugnant.
• Give voice to the voiceless.
• Operate in a respectful and courageous manner, doing our best to find all sides and complexities in every story.

We will:

• Treat our sources, subjects and colleagues with the respect all human beings deserve.
• Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by this film. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and inexperienced sources or subjects.
• Be sensitive when seeking or using interviews or photographs of those affected by tragedy or grief.
• Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort. Acknowledging this, we will take extra care that our film will not cause any additional risk to our subjects.
• Show good taste. Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity.
• Strive to minimize the negative impact of our footprint on the environment, as much as we reasonably can, given the extreme conditions we will be operating in.

We will:

• Operate free of obligation to any interest other than the public's right to know.
• Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived, whenever possible. Disclose unavoidable conflicts.
• Remain free of associations and activities that may compromise integrity or damage credibility.
• Refuse gifts, favors, fees, free travel and special treatment. In cases where it would be rude to refuse culturally appropriate hospitality, be careful to remain uncompromised and transparent.
• Be vigilant and courageous about holding those with power accountable.
• Be wary of sources offering information for favors or money. Avoid bidding for access to information.
• Be open and honest about the inevitability of a point of view in this film.

Our standards of filmmaking, ambitions and relations include a note of empathy for our common humanity and require us to always take into consideration our highest duties as members of society. Throughout the production of Sweet Crude, we will do our utmost to adhere to these standards, endeavoring to lift the level of human ideals and achievement higher that we found it.