EDP Sciences has updated its policy on AI and ethics, outlining clear principles for the responsible use of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies throughout the publishing process.
The revised policy, now incorporated into EDP Sciences’ Publishing Policies & Ethics, provides practical guidance for authors, reviewers, and editors while reinforcing the publisher’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and human accountability in scientific publishing. It defines acceptable uses of AI—such as language editing performed under human supervision—and specifies prohibited practices, including using generative AI to create images or conduct confidential peer reviews.
For authors, the policy mandates full disclosure of any AI tool used during the writing process at the time of submission, including the tool’s name and purpose, to promote openness and trust. AI tools cannot be listed as authors, and responsibility for the manuscript’s content remains entirely with the human authors. The policy also states that AI-generated or modified images and figures are not permitted, except when AI forms part of the research methodology and is transparently documented.
For reviewers and editors, the policy underscores the need for confidentiality and human judgment. It explicitly prohibits uploading manuscripts or review reports to generative AI tools, reaffirming that peer review is a human-led process grounded in trust and rigor.
Acknowledging the rapid evolution of AI technologies, EDP Sciences has aligned its approach with the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) position statement and international best practices. The organization will review and update the policy regularly to reflect advances in technology and regulation.
By establishing clear boundaries for the use of AI and AI-assisted technologies, EDP Sciences seeks to foster responsible innovation while safeguarding the reliability and credibility of the scientific record.
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