Why Researchers Choose Ecological Economics for High-Impact Publications
Ecological Economics stands as a cornerstone in the intersection of economics, ecology, and policy, offering researchers a platform to address pressing global challenges like climate change and resource management. Established in 1989, this Elsevier-published journal has evolved into a vital resource for scholars exploring sustainable development pathways. With a focus on transdisciplinary approaches, it bridges natural and social sciences to evaluate economic systems' environmental impacts. Researchers value its rigorous peer-review process, which ensures publications contribute meaningfully to debates on valuation, governance, and equity in ecological contexts.
The journal's commitment to integrating biophysical realities with economic theory attracts contributors from diverse fields, including environmental science and policy analysis. Its pages feature innovative studies on topics like ecosystem services, biodiversity economics, and green transitions. For academics aiming to influence real-world sustainability initiatives, publishing here provides access to a global audience of policymakers, economists, and ecologists. The journal's hybrid model supports both subscription and open-access options, enhancing dissemination of critical research.
Beyond academic prestige, Ecological Economics fosters discussions on ethical dimensions of growth and consumption. Articles often challenge conventional economic paradigms, advocating for steady-state economies and social justice. This intellectual depth makes it a preferred choice for those seeking to advance sustainability discourse. As environmental pressures intensify, the journal's role in shaping evidence-based policies grows ever more essential. To explore related opportunities, consider browsing sustainability career paths or checking the academic calendar for upcoming deadlines.
Researchers frequently cite the journal's ability to amplify underrepresented voices in ecological debates, promoting inclusive scholarship. Its editorial board, comprising experts from leading institutions, upholds high standards while encouraging bold, interdisciplinary inquiries. Whether analyzing carbon pricing mechanisms or community-based conservation, contributions here drive forward-thinking solutions. For those in early career stages, submitting to Ecological Economics can build a strong publication record, opening doors to funding and collaborations. Dive deeper into its legacy and prepare your manuscript today—visit the PhD programs in environmental economics for foundational knowledge.
Overview & History
Launched in 1989 by Elsevier, Ecological Economics emerged from the need to critique neoclassical economics through an ecological lens. Founded by pioneers like Herman Daly and Robert Costanza, it pioneered the field of ecological economics, emphasizing limits to growth and interdependence between human societies and natural systems. Over three decades, it has published over 5,000 articles, influencing international frameworks like the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
The journal's evolution reflects shifting global priorities, from early focuses on entropy and throughput economies to contemporary examinations of resilience and degrowth. Its Netherlands-based publisher, Elsevier, ensures wide distribution via platforms like ScienceDirect. Key milestones include special issues on climate economics in the 2000s and biodiversity valuation in recent years, solidifying its reputation as a forward-looking outlet.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Ecological Economics encompasses a broad spectrum of topics at the nexus of ecology and economics. It welcomes submissions on environmental valuation, policy instruments, and socio-ecological systems modeling. The journal prioritizes work that integrates biophysical constraints into economic analysis, covering areas from renewable energy transitions to social-ecological resilience.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Sustainability | Studies on long-term viability of economic systems within planetary boundaries. |
| Environmental Economics | Analyses of market failures, externalities, and incentive structures for conservation. |
| Ecological Modeling | Quantitative approaches to simulate human-nature interactions. |
| Policy and Governance | Evaluations of regulations, international agreements, and institutional reforms. |
| Social Equity | Explorations of justice, distribution, and ethics in resource use. |
This multidisciplinary scope attracts contributors worldwide, fostering dialogues across geography, anthropology, and beyond. For career insights, see professor reviews in these fields.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 6.6 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 7.2 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 11.8 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 156 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics underscore the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance. Researchers tracking environmental policy jobs often reference such data for benchmarking.
Indexing and Abstracting
Ecological Economics is indexed in major databases, ensuring visibility. It appears in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed for relevant articles. DOAJ lists it for open-access content, while Sherpa/RoMEO confirms self-archiving policies. Access abstracts via Scopus or ScienceDirect. This coverage aids discoverability, benefiting authors' career trajectories—explore academic timelines for indexing updates.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, Ecological Economics offers subscription-based access with optional open access. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for gold OA is approximately $3,500 USD, covering peer review and dissemination. Subscriptions are managed through Elsevier, with institutional access common. No page charges apply for standard submissions. For funding advice, check sustainability grants.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via Elsevier's Editorial Manager system at the journal's official homepage. Guidelines emphasize originality, with a 8,000-word limit and structured abstracts. Peer review typically takes 4-6 months, involving 2-3 experts. Authors must declare conflicts and adhere to ethical standards. Prepare by reviewing PhD advisor insights.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board features luminaries like Robert Costanza (Australian National University) and Joan Martínez-Alier (Autonomous University of Barcelona), bringing expertise in ecological valuation and political ecology. Regional diversity includes editors from Europe, North America, and Asia, ensuring global perspectives. Their guidance shapes the journal's direction toward inclusive, impactful scholarship.
Why Publish in Ecological Economics?
Publishing here elevates visibility among sustainability leaders, with articles often cited in policy documents. The journal's prestige aids tenure and grant applications, while its network connects authors to collaborators. For emerging scholars, it offers a pathway to influence—pair with professor ratings for mentorship ideas. Its focus on real-world applications distinguishes it, making contributions timely and relevant.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ecological Economics | 6.6 | Interdisciplinary ecology-economics | Elsevier |
| Environmental and Resource Economics | 2.5 | Resource valuation | Springer |
| Journal of Environmental Economics and Management | 4.1 | Applied environmental econ | Elsevier |
| Global Environmental Change | 8.9 | Socio-ecological transitions | Elsevier |
| Ecosystem Services | 5.1 | Service valuation | Elsevier |
This comparison highlights Ecological Economics' balanced scope and strong metrics. For alternatives, see related job listings.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
Craft a clear narrative linking economic theory to ecological evidence. Use interdisciplinary methods and address policy implications. Engage with recent issues for context. Revise based on feedback, and consider co-authorship for diverse insights. Track progress via the portal, and network at conferences. For preparation, visit sustainability events or calendars. Success here can propel your career—start today.