ISSN Information for Authors
27.02.2025
As a newly established journal, Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, Politics, Economy, and Industry is currently in the process of obtaining an International Standard Serial Number (ISSN), which is a critical step for ensuring the journal’s global recognition and academic legitimacy.
What is an ISSN and Why is it Important?
An ISSN is an internationally recognized unique identifier for serial publications like academic journals, magazines, and periodicals. This number, typically consisting of eight digits, helps libraries, databases, and indexing services track and manage journals. For authors, an ISSN ensures:
- Proper citation and visibility:
The ISSN allows your work to be correctly identified and cited across academic platforms and in publications.
- Increased discoverability:
Journals with an ISSN can be indexed by major academic databases such as Google Scholar, DOAJ, Scopus, and Web of Science, ensuring that your article reaches a wider, global audience.
- Academic credibility:
Having an ISSN is a sign that the journal is officially registered and recognized as a legitimate academic outlet.
The Process of Obtaining an ISSN
Since we are a new journal, we are in the process of applying for our ISSN. The process involves several key steps:
1. Application for ISSN:
Once we meet the minimum requirements for publication frequency and quality, we will apply to the National ISSN Center for an ISSN. The ISSN is typically assigned to both print and electronic versions of the journal (known as eISSN).
2.Indexing and Visibility:
Although we don’t yet have an ISSN, we are still publishing and promoting articles through platforms like Google Scholar, Crossref (for DOI assignment), and other non-Scopus indexed databases. The moment we obtain our ISSN, we will apply for indexing in major databases such as DOAJ, Scopus, and Web of Science.
3. Timeline for ISSN and Indexing:
The process of obtaining an ISSN generally takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the country’s National ISSN Center. After receiving the ISSN, we will begin submitting the journal for inclusion in international academic databases. For major databases like Scopus or Web of Science, indexing typically requires consistent publishing over the course of 2 years.
What Does This Mean for Authors?
We understand that authors may be concerned about publishing in a journal without an ISSN, especially when many academic institutions require publication in indexed journals. Here's how we are addressing that:
- Visibility & DOI Assignment: Even without an ISSN, all articles published in our journal are assigned DOIs via Crossref, ensuring that your work is discoverable and can be cited properly.
- Future Indexing: Once our ISSN is assigned, we will work towards getting indexed in major databases like Scopus and Web of Science, which will significantly enhance the visibility of your research.
- Support for Authors: We are dedicated to helping our authors gain recognition. As our journal grows and is indexed, your work will become more accessible and influential in its respective fields.