Complaints & Appeals Policy

Last Updated: 07/05/2026

The Journal of Sustainable Innovation and Impact (JSII), ISSN 3051-8083, is committed to handling complaints and appeals with fairness, transparency, and COPE-aligned editorial practice. Authors, reviewers, or readers may raise concerns about editorial decisions, peer review, communication, or ethical issues.

1. Scope

This policy covers:

  • Appeals against editorial decisions.
  • Concerns about peer review fairness or quality.
  • Complaints regarding editorial delay or communication.
  • Complaints regarding publication ethics or misconduct.
  • Editorial independence or conflict of interest concerns.

2. Submitting a Complaint or Appeal

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing to the Editorial Office.
  • The complaint should clearly state the issue, relevant evidence, and desired outcome.
  • Complaints should normally be submitted within 30 days of the issue arising, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
  • Anonymous complaints will be considered if sufficient evidence is provided.

3. Appeals Against Editorial Decisions

  • Authors may appeal a rejection or decision by providing a detailed justification with supporting evidence.
  • An appeal will be reviewed by an editor not involved in the original decision or, if necessary, an external advisor.
  • Decisions on appeals are final unless new, substantive evidence emerges.

4. Handling of Complaints

  • Complaints are acknowledged within 10 working days.
  • The investigation will be impartial, and outcomes communicated in writing.
  • Where necessary, cases may be referred to the Editorial Board or external experts.
  • JSII uses COPE Core Practices as a reference point when handling complaints, appeals, and publication ethics concerns.

5. Outcomes

  • If a complaint is upheld, corrective action may be taken, such as an editorial correction, apology, or policy change.
  • In cases of misconduct, actions may include correction, retraction, or notification of relevant institutions where appropriate.

6. Transparency & Independence

Complaints are handled independently of commercial, institutional, publisher, sponsor, or partner interests. Editorial independence is maintained throughout the process.

Contact: For complaints or appeals, contact the Editorial Office: editorial@thesustainimpact.com.