Privacy Policy for International Association for Biohydrogen (IABIOH)
Last Updated: September 12, 2025
The International Association for Biohydrogen (IABIOH), accessible at www.iabioh.org, is committed to protecting the privacy of our members, visitors, and stakeholders. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and safeguard your personal information in alignment with our mission to advance biohydrogen research, renewable energy, and sustainable waste management. By using our website or services, you agree to the terms described below.
1. Information We Collect
We collect information to provide and improve our services, including membership management, event coordination, and communication. The types of information we may collect include:
- Personal Information:
- When you register for membership, contact us (e.g., via info@iabioh.org), or sign up for newsletters/events, we may collect:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number (optional)
- Country of residence
- Affiliation/organization, position, and field of expertise
- Student status documentation (if applicable)
- Comments or inquiries submitted via forms
- Usage Data:
- Automatically collected data when you visit our website, such as IP address, browser type, device information, pages visited, and timestamps (via cookies or analytics tools).
- Other Information:
- Information you voluntarily provide, such as feedback, survey responses, or event registrations.
- When you register for membership, contact us (e.g., via info@iabioh.org), or sign up for newsletters/events, we may collect:
2. How We Collect Information
- Directly from You: Through forms (e.g., membership registration, contact forms), email communications, or event sign-ups.
- Automatically: Via website analytics tools (e.g., WordPress.com analytics) and cookies to track usage patterns. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings.
- Third Parties: From service providers like email hosts (e.g., Zoho Mail, Google Workspace) or event platforms, only when you engage with those services.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Process and manage membership applications, including verification and payment coordination.
- Communicate updates, newsletters, and event details (e.g., conferences, webinars).
- Respond to inquiries sent to info@iabioh.org or other channels.
- Improve our website and services through analytics (e.g., understanding visitor preferences).
- Promote biohydrogen research and sustainability initiatives, such as sharing member contributions in publications (with consent).
- Comply with legal obligations or protect against fraud/misuse.
4. How We Share Your Information
We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share it only in the following cases:
- Service Providers: With trusted third parties (e.g., WordPress.com for hosting, Zoho Mail for email) to deliver services. These providers are bound by confidentiality agreements.
- Legal Requirements: If required by law, such as in response to a court order or regulatory request.
- Aggregated Data: Non-identifiable, anonymized data may be shared for research or statistical purposes (e.g., number of members by country).
- With Consent: For specific purposes, such as featuring your bio in our publications or events.
5. Data Storage and Security
- Storage: Your information is stored securely on servers managed by our service providers (e.g., WordPress.com, Zoho Mail), primarily in the United States or EU, depending on the provider.
- Security Measures: We use industry-standard safeguards, including encryption (e.g., SSL for website data), access controls, and regular security reviews, to protect your data. However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute protection.
- Retention: We retain personal information only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined (e.g., active membership duration) or as required by law. Inactive member data is deleted after 2 years unless you request otherwise.
6. Your Rights
Depending on your location (e.g., under GDPR for EU residents or CCPA for California residents), you may have the right to:
- Access, correct, or delete your personal information.
- Opt out of marketing communications (e.g., newsletters).
- Restrict or object to certain data processing.
- Request data portability.
To exercise these rights, contact us at info@iabioh.org. We will respond within 30 days (or as required by law).
7. Cookies and Tracking
Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience and analyze traffic. Cookies may include:
- Essential Cookies: For site functionality (e.g., session management).
- Analytics Cookies: To track usage patterns (e.g., via WordPress.com Stats).
You can disable cookies in your browser, but this may affect site functionality. See our Cookie Policy for details (if applicable).
8. Third-Party Links
Our website may link to external sites (e.g., event platforms, research partners). We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Please review their policies before providing information.
9. International Data Transfers
As a global organization, your data may be transferred to countries outside your residence (e.g., US servers for WordPress.com). We ensure such transfers comply with applicable laws (e.g., GDPR’s Standard Contractual Clauses).
10. Children’s Privacy
Our services are not intended for individuals under 16. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If you believe we have such data, contact us to have it removed.
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised “Last Updated” date. Significant changes will be communicated via email (e.g., to info@iabioh.org subscribers) or website notices.
12. Contact Us
For questions, concerns, or to exercise your data rights, contact:
- Email: info@iabioh.org
We are committed to resolving any issues promptly and transparently.
Thank you for trusting IABIOH with your information. Together, we advance a sustainable, net-zero future through biohydrogen innovation.