Why Researchers Choose Landscape and Urban Planning for High-Impact Publications

Landscape and Urban Planning stands as a cornerstone in the field of architecture and design, providing a vital platform for scholars to disseminate groundbreaking research on the interplay between human environments and natural systems. Established as a leading Elsevier publication, this journal has earned its reputation through rigorous peer review and a commitment to advancing knowledge in sustainable urban development, landscape architecture, and environmental planning. Researchers are drawn to Landscape and Urban Planning for its ability to connect theoretical insights with practical applications, fostering innovations that shape cities and ecosystems worldwide.

The journal's scope encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, from urban design strategies that mitigate climate change to landscape restoration techniques that enhance biodiversity. With an impact factor of 8.4, publishing in Landscape and Urban Planning signals excellence and visibility within academic and professional circles. Its interdisciplinary approach appeals to experts in architecture, geography, environmental science, and policy-making, ensuring that articles reach diverse audiences and influence real-world decision-making.

Over the decades, Landscape and Urban Planning has evolved to address contemporary challenges like rapid urbanization and ecological sustainability. Its editorial team, comprising international leaders, upholds high standards while encouraging inclusive scholarship from emerging regions. For those in architecture and design, submitting to this journal means contributing to a legacy of impactful publications that guide urban planners and landscape architects toward resilient futures.

Key metrics highlight its prestige: a CiteScore of 13.9 and indexing in top databases like Scopus and Web of Science. The hybrid publication model offers flexibility, allowing authors to choose open access for broader dissemination. Researchers value the journal's efficient submission process, with average review times around 3-4 months, enabling timely contributions to ongoing debates in urban planning.

Whether exploring green infrastructure or social equity in city design, Landscape and Urban Planning provides the rigor and reach needed for career advancement. To explore related opportunities in academia, check out architecture faculty positions.

Overview & History

Landscape and Urban Planning was founded in 1974 by Elsevier, emerging as a response to the growing need for integrated studies on human-modified environments. Initially focused on landscape architecture, it quickly expanded to include urban planning dynamics, reflecting the era's urban sprawl concerns. Over nearly five decades, the journal has published over 5,000 articles, influencing policies on sustainable development globally.

Published in the Netherlands, it maintains a European perspective while embracing international submissions. Key milestones include adopting digital formats in the 1990s and embracing open access options in the 2010s, enhancing accessibility for researchers worldwide. Today, it remains a quarterly publication, balancing depth with timeliness in architecture and design scholarship.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal covers interdisciplinary research at the nexus of landscape and urban environments, emphasizing sustainable practices in architecture and design.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics underscore Landscape and Urban Planning's influence in architecture and design, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance.

Indexing and Abstracting

Landscape and Urban Planning is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring global discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (Science Citation Index Expanded), Scopus, and GEOBASE. Additional coverage includes CAB Abstracts, Environmental Sciences, and Urban Studies Abstracts. This broad indexing supports researchers in architecture and design by maximizing article visibility and citation potential. Not listed in DOAJ as it's hybrid, but full abstracts are available via Elsevier's platform.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Landscape and Urban Planning offers subscription-based access with optional open access. Authors can publish under a Creative Commons license by paying an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately €3,570 (about $3,800 USD), covering production and dissemination. No fees for traditional publishing. Elsevier's green and gold OA policies align with funder mandates, making it accessible for architecture and design scholars seeking wider impact.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via Elsevier's Editorial Manager system at the journal's homepage. Authors must prepare manuscripts in English, following the journal's style guide: double-spaced, 8,000-word limit, with abstracts under 250 words. Include keywords, figures, and declarations of interest. Peer review is double-anonymized, typically taking 3-4 months. Guidelines emphasize originality, ethical standards, and relevance to urban planning and landscape architecture. For tips, visit journal submission deadlines.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board features experts from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief Jørgen Primdahl from the University of Copenhagen oversees strategic direction, with associate editors like Marina Alberti from the University of Washington specializing in urban ecology. International members from the Netherlands, USA, and Australia ensure diverse perspectives in architecture and design. Their expertise in sustainable planning guides the journal's high standards.

Why Publish in Landscape and Urban Planning?

Publishing in Landscape and Urban Planning elevates research visibility due to its high impact factor and interdisciplinary audience. It offers rapid dissemination through online-first publication and robust peer feedback that refines work. For architecture and design professionals, it bridges academia and practice, influencing urban policies. The journal's prestige aids career progression, with articles often cited in grant applications and promotions. Submit to contribute to sustainable futures.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Landscape and Urban Planning excels in holistic architecture and design integration compared to peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

• Align your work with the journal's emphasis on interdisciplinary urban planning applications.
• Use clear visuals like maps and models to illustrate landscape designs.
• Cite recent articles to demonstrate engagement with current debates.
• Seek feedback from colleagues before submitting to strengthen arguments.
• Review Sherpa/RoMEO for rights retention in architecture and design projects.
• Explore rate my professor for architecture to connect with potential collaborators.