Why Researchers Choose Journal of Environmental Law for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Environmental Law stands as a cornerstone in the field of legal scholarship focused on environmental issues. Published by Oxford University Press, this esteemed journal has been a vital resource for academics, policymakers, and practitioners since its inception in 1989. It provides rigorous analysis of environmental law topics, including regulatory frameworks, international treaties, and sustainable development policies. With a commitment to advancing scholarly discourse, the journal publishes peer-reviewed articles that bridge theoretical insights with practical applications in environmental governance.
Researchers value the Journal of Environmental Law for its rigorous editorial standards and global reach. The journal's impact factor of 1.8 reflects its influence within the academic community, making it an attractive venue for scholars aiming to contribute to high-impact publications. Its hybrid open access model allows authors to choose between traditional subscription-based access or open access, enhancing visibility and citation potential. The journal covers a broad spectrum of disciplines within law, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate economics, science, and policy.
One key strength lies in its focus on timely and relevant topics, such as climate change litigation, biodiversity conservation, and environmental justice. Articles often explore the intersection of domestic and international law, providing in-depth case studies and comparative analyses. This makes it particularly appealing for researchers in law schools and environmental studies programs worldwide. The journal's quarterly publication schedule ensures that cutting-edge research reaches readers promptly.
For those considering submission, the Journal of Environmental Law offers clear guidelines and a supportive review process. Its editorial board, comprising leading experts, ensures high-quality feedback. Publishing here not only elevates an author's profile but also contributes to shaping environmental policy debates. Explore opportunities in environmental law academia by checking law faculty positions or tenure-track jobs.
Overview & History
The Journal of Environmental Law was established in 1989 by Oxford University Press to address the growing need for specialized scholarship in environmental legal studies. Initially focusing on UK and European environmental regulations, it has evolved into a global platform discussing laws from diverse jurisdictions. Over the decades, it has published seminal works on topics like the Aarhus Convention and EU environmental directives. Today, it remains a quarterly publication with a circulation that includes major universities and legal institutions.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal encompasses a wide array of topics within environmental law, emphasizing critical analysis and innovative solutions. Key areas include pollution control, natural resource management, and international environmental agreements.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Environmental Policy | Analysis of regulatory frameworks and policy implementation. |
| International Law | Treaties, conventions, and cross-border environmental issues. |
| Climate Change Law | Litigation, adaptation strategies, and carbon trading. |
| Sustainable Development | Integration of law with economic and social sustainability. |
| Environmental Justice | Equity issues in environmental decision-making. |
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 1.8 | 2022 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 2.1 | 2022 |
| CiteScore | 2.5 | 2023 |
| SJR | 0.512 | 2023 |
| h-index | 35 | Current |
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Environmental Law is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (SSCI), and HeinOnline. Additional indexing includes the Social Sciences Citation Index and Current Contents. For full details, visit the official journal homepage or Scopus.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, it offers both subscription and open access options. The standard subscription model provides access to subscribers, while authors can opt for gold open access with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of £3,470 (approximately $4,500 USD). No fees for non-OA submissions. Oxford University Press supports waivers for authors from low-income countries.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the ScholarOne platform. Manuscripts should be original, up to 10,000 words, with abstracts and keywords. The double-blind peer review process typically takes 3-6 months. Guidelines emphasize clear structure, citations in OSCOLA style, and relevance to environmental law. Access the submission portal for details.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board features renowned scholars such as Editor-in-Chief Prof. Ole W. Pedersen from City, University of London, and associate editors from institutions like the University of Cambridge and UCL. Their expertise spans EU law, international environmental law, and policy analysis, ensuring diverse perspectives.
Why Publish in Journal of Environmental Law?
Publishing in this journal enhances career prospects by associating with a respected outlet. Its impact factor and indexing boost citations, while the hybrid model increases accessibility. Scholars benefit from global readership and opportunities to influence policy.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Environmental Law | 1.8 | Oxford UP | Environmental policy and law |
| Environmental Law Review | 1.2 | SAGE | UK environmental legislation |
| Journal of International Wildlife Law & Policy | 0.9 | Taylor & Francis | Wildlife and biodiversity |
| Climate Law | 1.5 | Brill | Climate change governance |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Ensure your manuscript addresses a novel aspect of environmental law.
- Use OSCOLA referencing accurately.
- Highlight interdisciplinary elements to appeal to the journal's scope.
- Check for originality using plagiarism tools before submission.
- Engage with recent articles for contextual relevance.
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