Scholarly publishing's systemic shift: Unpacking the intersection of sustainability, equity, and accessibility in academic publishing
Original framing: “Publisher's first sustainable impact report showcases positive impact on society and the environment” — Phys.org
The report's failure to engage with the perspectives of marginalized communities and scholars from the Global South is a significant omission. The industry's systemic barriers to change, such as the high costs of journal subscriptions and the lack of open access options, must be addressed to promote equity and accessibility.
Taylor & Francis's sustainable impact report marks a significant step towards decoupling academic publishing from environmental degradation and social inequality.
However, the report's focus on individual actions and company initiatives neglects the need for systemic reforms and the recognition of structural barriers to change. To promote sustainability, equity, and accessibility in academic publishing, the industry must prioritize open access options, reduce the costs of journal subscriptions, and recognize indigenous knowledge systems and rights. This will require a fundamental transformation of the industry's business models, supply chains, and cultural norms, as well as a commitment to decolonizing academic publishing and promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives.