Appeals and Complaints Policy

Appeals

An author may appeal a substantive editorial decision where there is a clear factual error, a material misunderstanding of the manuscript, evidence that a relevant policy was not followed, or a demonstrable reviewer conflict that materially affected the process.

How to Appeal

Appeals should normally be submitted within 30 days of the decision and should identify the manuscript, decision date, specific grounds for appeal, and concise evidence. Appeals are not intended to provide a full re-review merely because the author disagrees with the scientific judgment.

Review of Appeals

An appeal is assessed by the Editor-in-Chief or, where the Editor-in-Chief was involved or conflicted, an independent editor or board member. A third reviewer or external expert may be consulted where useful. The appeal outcome is normally final for the manuscript.

Complaints

Complaints about editorial conduct, reviewer behavior, publishing practices, fees, or conflicts may be submitted to editorialoffice@climatepublichealth.org. Privacy or data-protection complaints may be sent to editorialoffice@climatepublichealth.org; payment disputes to editorialoffice@climatepublichealth.org.

Retaliation and Confidentiality

Complaints and appeals are handled confidentially to the extent reasonably possible. The journal will not penalize authors for raising a good-faith concern.

Unresolved Concerns

Where appropriate, the journal may seek guidance from COPE or relevant institutional or professional bodies.