Plagiarism Policy

The Journal of Sustainable Engineering (JSE) maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding plagiarism. We are committed to publishing only original research that contributes to the advancement of sustainable engineering.

1. Plagiarism Detection

Every manuscript submitted to JSE undergoes a mandatory screening process before being sent for peer review. We utilize industry-standard software—primarily Turnitin or iThenticate—to generate a similarity report.

2. Acceptable Thresholds

While every case is evaluated individually by the Editorial Team, JSE generally adheres to the following guidelines:

  • Maximum Similarity Index: The total similarity index must be less than 20%.

  • Single Source Limit: Similarity from a single source must not exceed 3%.

  • Exclusions: Standard terminology, common engineering formulas, and the reference list are generally excluded from the similarity count, provided they are properly cited.

3. Types of Plagiarism

JSE screens for all forms of plagiarism, including:

  • Direct Plagiarism: Copying text word-for-word from another source without quotation marks or attribution.

  • Self-Plagiarism (Text Recycling): Reusing significant portions of the author’s own previously published work without proper citation or disclosure to the editor.

  • Mosaic/Patchwork Plagiarism: Borrowing phrases or ideas from various sources and weaving them into a new text without clear attribution.

  • Data Falsification: Manipulating research data or images to represent a false outcome.

4. Policy on AI-Generated Content

In alignment with current academic standards (2026), the use of AI tools (such as ChatGPT or Gemini) for content generation must be transparently disclosed. AI-generated text that is not properly credited or that replicates existing literature without citation is considered a violation of this policy.

5. Action Against Misconduct

If plagiarism is detected:

  • Before Publication: If the similarity is high (e.g., >25%), the manuscript will be desk-rejected immediately. If the similarity is moderate, it may be returned to the author for revision and clarification.

  • After Publication: If plagiarism is discovered after an article is published, JSE will follow the COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines, which may result in a formal correction or a retraction of the article.