YOUR GO-TO INTELLIGENCE RESOURCE FOR THE SCHOLARLY PUBLISHING INDUSTRY

The Publishers Association has achieved its 150th signature on the Publishing Declares pledge. Launched in 2021, Publishing Declares aims to raise awareness of sustainability issues within the UK book and journal publishing industry, facilitate the discovery of tools and resources, and inspire action towards sustained behavior change.

Signatories of the pledge commit to several key actions, including joining the global climate effort to limit warming to 1.5°C by setting ambitious, measurable targets to achieve net-zero emissions across their own operations and supply chains as soon as possible and no later than 2050. They also pledge to protect nature and biodiversity by working with resource-efficient supply chain partners, utilizing sustainable materials and processes, and constantly innovating to make use of new and recycled materials. Collaboration is emphasized, with signatories committing to work together with peers, authors, illustrators, supply chain partners, and business partners to translate climate aspirations into tangible actions that safeguard the planet for future generations. In addition, signatories are encouraged to empower their colleagues to become climate literate and incorporate that knowledge into their work, as well as to leverage their expertise, platform, and voice to raise awareness and drive positive climate action.

Publishing Declares is just one of the sustainability initiatives undertaken by the Publishers Association. In 2022, they launched the Carbon Calculator and Materials Matrix, further demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility.

The Publishers Association's commitment to sustainability is commendable, and with the increasing number of signatories on the Publishing Declares pledge, it is evident that the industry is actively embracing the need for environmental action. Through collaborative efforts and tangible steps, the publishing industry can play a significant role in addressing climate change and creating a more sustainable future.