GreenSteps Privacy Policy

Effective Date: October 18, 2024

GreenSteps ("we," "us," or "our") respects and values your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect your data. It also outlines your rights under relevant data protection laws, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring compliance and transparency. Please read this document thoroughly to understand your rights and how we handle your personal information.

1. Information We Collect

GreenSteps collects various types of data to deliver core services effectively and enhance your experience. Below is an overview of the data we collect.

1.1 Personal Information

This information is collected when you voluntarily provide it. It includes:

• Username and Avatar: If used for account creation or support inquiries.

• Profile information: Optional data like profile photos, which allow users to personalize their experience.

1.2 Carbon Tracking Data

We collect information you input about your daily activities that contribute to your carbon footprint, including:

• Travel data: Transport mode, frequency, and mileage to assess emissions.

• Dietary data: Food choices and portions, since diet impacts carbon emissions.

• Utility data: Water, electricity, or gas consumption, providing a holistic view of emissions.

1.3 Device and Usage Data

Collected automatically to improve app performance and offer relevant services:

• Device information: Including device type, operating system, IP address, and app version.

• Location data: If granted, used to offer localized insights and features.

• Interaction data: Tracks user actions within the app (e.g., session times, page views).

2. How We Use Your Information

The information we collect enables us to provide meaningful insights and a smooth user experience. Specifically, we use your data to:

• Calculate carbon footprints: Generate daily, weekly, and monthly summaries.

• Visualize your impact: Provide charts and reports on your progress toward reducing emissions.

• Improve user experience: Analyze usage patterns to enhance app functionality.

• Deliver personalized recommendations: Offer eco-friendly tips and suggestions tailored to your habits.

• Communicate with you: Send updates, respond to inquiries, and notify you about new features.

We may also use aggregated, anonymized data for research purposes or internal analysis without identifying individuals.

3. Information Sharing and Disclosure

GreenSteps does not sell your personal data to third parties. However, we may share information in limited situations:

• Service Providers: We work with trusted partners for data storage, analytics, and technical support.

• Legal Compliance: If required by law, we may disclose information to comply with legal requests or investigations.

• Aggregated Data: We may use anonymized data for research, publications, or public reports. This data will not reveal any personal information.

We ensure that our partners adhere to strict data protection standards.

4. Data Security and Retention

4.1 Security Measures

We take appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal data from unauthorized access or misuse. This includes encryption, secure servers, and firewalls. Access to data is limited to authorized personnel only.

4.2 Data Retention Policy

We retain your personal data for as long as necessary to provide the services outlined in this policy or to comply with legal obligations. If you request deletion, your data will be permanently removed unless specific retention is required by law.

5. Your Rights Based on Location

Your rights concerning your personal data depend on where you are located. Below is an overview of the rights granted to users globally, as well as region-specific rights for California and European Union residents.

5.1 General Rights for All Users

• Access and Correction: Request access to your personal data or correct any inaccuracies.

• Data Deletion: Delete your account or request that your data be removed from our system.

• Withdraw Consent: Revoke your consent for data collection at any time.

5.2 California Residents (CCPA)

If you are located in California, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) provides additional rights:

• Right to Know: Request detailed information about the personal data we have collected.

• Right to Opt-Out: Opt out of any potential sale of personal data (though we do not sell data).

• Right to Delete: Request the deletion of your personal data, subject to legal exceptions.

• Non-Discrimination: We will not discriminate against you for exercising your privacy rights.

To exercise your rights, contact us at GreenSteps@gmail.com. We may need to verify your identity to ensure the legitimacy of your request.

5.3 European Union Residents (GDPR)

Users in the European Union have additional rights under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR):

• Right to Access: Obtain a copy of your personal data.

• Right to Rectification: Request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete data.

• Right to Erasure ("Right to be Forgotten"): Request that your data be deleted.

• Right to Restrict Processing: Limit how your data is used under certain conditions.

• Right to Data Portability: Receive your data in a portable, machine-readable format.

• Right to Object: Object to data processing, especially for marketing purposes.

6. Children’s Privacy

GreenSteps is not designed for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we become aware that a child has provided personal data, we will take immediate steps to delete it. Parents or guardians can contact us directly to request data deletion.

7. International Data Transfers

Your data may be transferred and processed in countries outside of your own, including those with different data protection laws. We ensure that such transfers comply with applicable regulations by implementing appropriate safeguards.

8. Third-Party Links and Integrations

GreenSteps may include links to external websites or third-party services. We are not responsible for their private practices. We recommend reviewing their privacy policies before engaging with their services.

9. Changes to This Policy

We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy as necessary to reflect changes in our practices, technologies, or legal obligations. If significant changes are made, we will notify you through the app or via email. We encourage you to review this policy periodically to stay informed about how we protect your data.

10. Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal data, please contact us:

• Email: GreenSteps@gmail.com

Thank you for using GreenSteps. Together, we can take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.