Plagiarism & Screening Policy

Last Updated: 07/09/2025

The Journal of Sustainable Innovation and Impact (JSII) upholds strict standards of originality and research integrity. All submissions are screened for plagiarism and related misconduct before and during peer review.

1. Definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:

Copying text, data, figures, or tables from other sources without citation.
Paraphrasing substantial parts of another work without acknowledgement.
Self-plagiarism (duplicate publication or resubmitting previously published work as new).
Unacknowledged use of third-party images, datasets, or software.

2. Screening Process

All manuscripts are checked with plagiarism detection software at submission.
Submissions with a similarity index above acceptable thresholds (normally >20%, excluding references) are investigated by editors.
Editors may request clarifications, corrections, or reject submissions based on similarity findings.

3. During Peer Review

Reviewers are encouraged to flag any suspected overlap or duplication.
Further checks may be carried out if concerns are raised during review.

4. Consequences of Misconduct

Minor overlap: Authors will be asked to revise and cite appropriately.
Major overlap or deliberate plagiarism: Manuscript will be rejected; authors may be restricted from future submissions.
Post-publication: Corrections, expressions of concern, or retractions will be issued in line with COPE guidance.

5. Author Responsibilities

Submit only original manuscripts with accurate referencing.
Use plagiarism-check tools before submission.
Secure permissions for third-party content when required.

6. Editorial Responsibilities

Apply plagiarism checks consistently to all submissions.
Communicate decisions fairly and transparently.
Handle suspected cases in accordance with the Ethical Guidelines (PEMS) and COPE recommendations.

Contact: Questions about this policy may be directed to the Editorial Office — editorial@thesustainimpact.com.