1. Introduction
This Cookies Policy explains how the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology (ICTA-UAB), as the data controller for the Political Ecological Network (POLLEN) website, uses cookies and similar technologies on our website. This policy provides you with clear and comprehensive information about the cookies we use and the purposes for which we use them.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when
you visit our website. They allow the website to recognize your device and remember certain
information about your visit, such as your preferences and actions on the site. Cookies are
widely used to make websites work more efficiently and to provide information to the website
owners.
3. Types of Cookies We Use
Our website uses the following types of cookies:
- 3.1. Essential/Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the proper functioning of our website. They enable core functionality such as security, network management, and account access. You cannot opt out of these cookies as the website cannot function properly without them. - 3.2. Functional Cookies
These cookies enable us to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third-party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you disable these cookies, some or all of these services may not function properly. - 3.3. Analytical/Performance Cookies
- These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and anonymous.
- 3.4. Targeting/Advertising Cookies
These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant advertisements on other sites. They do not directly store personal information but are based on uniquely identifying your browser and internet device.
4. First-Party and Third-Party Cookies
Our website uses both first-party cookies (set by the POLLEN website domain) and third-party
cookies (set by other domains):
- First-party cookies: These are cookies that are set by our website domain.
- Third-party cookies: These are cookies that are set by third-party services we use such as analytics providers (e.g., Google Analytics) or social media platforms.
5. Duration of Cookies
Based on their duration, cookies are classified as:
- Session cookies: These are temporary cookies that expire when you close your browser.
- Persistent cookies: These remain on your device until they expire or you delete them from your cache. The length of time these cookies remain on your device varies depending on the cookie.
6. Specific Cookies Used on Our Website
| Cookie Name | Provider | Type | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics | Analytical | Used to distinguish users | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics | Analytical | Used to distinguish users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics | Analytical | Used to throttle request rate | 1 minute |
| session_id | Pollen | Essential | Maintains user session | Session |
| consent_status | Pollen | Essential | Stores cookie consent preferences | 1 year |
7. Managing Cookies
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings preferences. However, if
you limit the ability of websites to set cookies, you may worsen your overall user experience, as
it will no longer be personalized to you. It may also stop you from saving customized settings
like login information.
How to manage cookies in major browsers:
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data
- Firefox: Options > Privacy & Security > Enhanced Tracking Protection
- Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Cookies and website data
- Edge: Settings > Site permissions > Cookies and site data
- Opera: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies
8. Your Consent
When you first visit our website, we will display a cookie banner asking for your consent to place non-essential cookies on your device. You can choose to accept all cookies, reject non-essential cookies, or customize your preferences.
You can change your cookie preferences at any time by clicking on the “Cookie Settings” link in the footer of our website.
Changes to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, regulation, or our business practices. Any changes will be posted on this page, and if the changes are significant, we will provide a more prominent notice.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our use of cookies, please contact us at:
Email: politicalecologynetwork@gmail.com
Postal Address:
Institute of Environmental Science and Technology (ICTA-UAB)
Carrer de les Columnes s/n, Campus UAB, Edifici ICTA-ICP
08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
Data Protection Officer (DPO)
DPO Contact Information at UAB: politicalecologynetwork@gmail.com
Last updated: 16.04.2025