Conflict of Interest Policy
Transparency is fundamental to the integrity of the scholarly record. All participants in the publication process must disclose potential conflicts that could influence the research or editorial process.
1. Definition of Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest (COI) exists when professional judgment may be influenced by actual or perceived interests, including:
• Financial interests
• Institutional affiliations
• Personal relationships
• Academic competition
• Ideological commitments
2. Author Responsibilities
Authors must disclose all funding, consultancies, stock ownership, or advisory roles that could affect the research.
Mandatory Statement Template:
"The authors declare no conflict of interest." (Use if no conflicts exist)
Failure to disclose relevant conflicts may result in immediate rejection or retraction.
3. Reviewer Responsibilities
Reviewers must decline invitations if conflicts exist with authors or institutions. Professional advantage from unpublished info is strictly prohibited.
4. Editor Responsibilities
Editors must recuse themselves if a conflict arises. Reassignment to an independent editor ensures an unbiased decision-making process.
5. Publisher Responsibilities
The publisher supports editorial independence. Commercial considerations, including APC payments, never influence manuscript evaluation or acceptance.
6. Management of Undisclosed Conflicts
If undisclosed conflicts are discovered post-publication, CSGS will investigate and take action:
Formal Correction Expression of Concern Article Retraction
7. Transparency and Record Integrity
All disclosed conflicts are published alongside the article and registered in editorial records. This openness protects the integrity of the scholarly record and maintains global trust in climate sustainability research.
