South African Geographical Journal

Scope & Guideline

Advancing geographical insights for a sustainable future.

Introduction

Welcome to the South African Geographical Journal information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of South African Geographical Journal, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0373-6245
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1931 to 1932, from 1934 to 1936, from 1938 to 2024
AbbreviationS AFR GEOGR J / S. Afr. Geogr. J.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The South African Geographical Journal focuses on a wide range of geographical and environmental issues pertinent to South Africa and the broader African context. Its main aims and scopes emphasize interdisciplinary research that combines theoretical approaches with practical applications to address contemporary challenges in geography, environmental science, and social issues.
  1. Climate Change and Adaptation Strategies:
    Research focusing on climate change impacts, adaptation strategies, and resilience, particularly in the context of vulnerable communities and ecosystems in South Africa.
  2. Spatial Analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS):
    Utilization of spatial data and GIS methodologies to analyze various geographical phenomena, including urban development, environmental changes, and resource management.
  3. Sustainable Development and Environmental Management:
    Exploration of sustainable practices in urban planning, natural resource management, and community engagement to enhance resilience and environmental quality.
  4. Socioeconomic Dynamics and Urban Studies:
    Examination of urbanization processes, inequalities, and the socio-economic factors influencing communities within South African cities and towns.
  5. Natural Resource Management and Conservation:
    Investigating the management of natural resources, including water, land, and biodiversity, with an emphasis on conservation strategies and ecological sustainability.
  6. Cultural Geography and Community Perspectives:
    Analysis of cultural landscapes, local narratives, and community engagement in geographical and environmental issues, reflecting diverse perspectives in South Africa.
The South African Geographical Journal has seen a notable shift towards emerging themes that reflect the current socio-environmental landscape and the pressing challenges faced by communities. These trending areas highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues and innovative research methodologies.
  1. Climate Resilience and Disaster Risk Reduction:
    An increasing focus on climate resilience, particularly in the context of disaster risk reduction strategies, showcasing the need for adaptive measures in response to climate change impacts.
  2. Urbanization and Informal Settlements:
    A surge in research examining the dynamics of urbanization, particularly the challenges and opportunities associated with informal settlements in South African cities.
  3. Health and Wellbeing in Urban Contexts:
    Emerging studies that explore the intersection of health, wellbeing, and urban environments, particularly in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and its socio-economic impacts.
  4. Remote Sensing and Technological Applications:
    Growing interest in utilizing remote sensing technologies and spatial analysis tools to address environmental issues, land use changes, and resource management.
  5. Social Justice and Environmental Equity:
    An increased emphasis on social justice issues related to environmental management and resource allocation, reflecting a broader discourse on equity and community engagement.

Declining or Waning

While the journal maintains a robust focus on various geographical themes, certain areas have seen a decline in prominence over recent years. These waning scopes reflect shifting research priorities and emerging challenges faced by the discipline.
  1. Traditional Land Use Studies:
    Research focusing solely on traditional land use practices has diminished, possibly due to increasing interest in integrated approaches that consider socio-economic and environmental factors.
  2. Historical Geographical Analysis:
    There appears to be a decline in papers centered on historical geography, as contemporary studies increasingly prioritize current issues such as climate change and urbanization.
  3. Rural Geography:
    Although rural studies remain important, there is a noticeable decrease in publications specifically addressing rural geography, with more emphasis shifting towards urban-centric research.
  4. Geopolitics and Globalization:
    The focus on geopolitics and globalization has waned, as researchers seem to be concentrating more on local and regional issues rather than broader geopolitical analyses.
  5. Conventional Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA):
    Research specifically focused on conventional EIAs is becoming less prominent, likely due to the evolving methodologies and frameworks that integrate community perspectives and participatory approaches.

Similar Journals

EARTH

Transforming understanding through multidisciplinary insights.
Publisher: MDPIISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

EARTH is a prestigious journal published by MDPI, located in Switzerland, with a commitment to advancing the fields of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Environmental Science. Launched in 2020, the journal emphasizes an open-access publication model, ensuring that high-quality research is widely accessible to the scientific community and beyond. As of 2023, it proudly holds a Q2 ranking in both the Environmental Science and Earth and Planetary Sciences categories, indicating its significant impact within these disciplines; it ranks #90 out of 219 and #70 out of 159 in their respective fields according to Scopus. With the convergence of multidisciplinary research and the critical challenges our planet faces, EARTH seeks to publish innovative studies that foster a deeper understanding of geological and environmental processes. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find this journal an invaluable resource for the latest findings and discussions shaping our understanding of Earth sciences.

International Journal of Applied Geospatial Research

Fostering excellence in applied geospatial studies.
Publisher: IGI GLOBALISSN: 1947-9654Frequency: 4 issues/year

International Journal of Applied Geospatial Research is an esteemed publication dedicated to advancing the field of geospatial research. Published by IGI Global, this journal provides a platform for innovative studies from 2010 to 2024 that encourage multidisciplinary contributions across Earth and planetary sciences and geography. While currently not offering open access, the journal's focus on applied research ensures that it remains highly relevant to both academics and industry professionals alike. With an ISSN of 1947-9654 and an E-ISSN of 1947-9662, it has been indexed in various databases, reflecting its emerging significance with rankings such as Q4 in Earth and Planetary Sciences and Geography according to Scopus, placing it at the intersection of critical research and practical application. Researchers, professionals, and students can expect insightful articles that enhance understanding and drive innovation in geospatial applications essential for informed decision-making in a rapidly changing world.

Cuadernos de Investigacion Geografica

Exploring the Frontiers of Geography and Environmental Science
Publisher: UNIV RIOJA, SERV PUBLICACIONESISSN: 0211-6820Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cuadernos de Investigacion Geografica, published by UNIV RIOJA, SERV PUBLICACIONES, stands as a premier open-access journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of geography, environmental science, and earth sciences. Since its inception in 1983, this journal has fostered innovative research and critical discourse, currently holding a distinguished position in Scopus with impressive quartile rankings, including Q2 in both Earth and Planetary Sciences, and Geography, Planning and Development, reflecting its impact and relevance. With an aim to present high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that contribute to the understanding of our planet and its systems, Cuadernos de Investigacion Geografica welcomes submissions from researchers, professionals, and students alike, fostering a collaborative environment that spans across diverse geographical contexts. Operating from its hub in Logroño, Spain, this journal continues to be a vital resource for anyone engaged in geographical research and environmental analysis, providing open access to enhance knowledge sharing and innovation in these dynamic fields.

Southeastern Geographer

Connecting Scholarship with Real-World Geographical Issues
Publisher: ASSOC AMER GEOGRAPHERSISSN: 0038-366XFrequency: 4 issues/year

The Southeastern Geographer is a prominent academic journal published by the Association of American Geographers, dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Geography, Planning and Development. With an ISSN of 0038-366X and an E-ISSN of 1549-6929, this journal has been a staple in geographical scholarship since its inception, offering a platform for diverse research that spans over four decades, specifically from 1979 to 1994 and then from 1996 to 2024. The journal is currently classified in the Q3 category within its fields, indicating its significant influence in shaping contemporary geographical discourse. Researchers, professionals, and students alike benefit from its rigorously peer-reviewed articles that explore regional studies, environmental issues, and sociocultural dynamics, making it essential for anyone interested in the interconnectedness of geography and society. As a vital resource for advancing geographical education and research, the Southeastern Geographer continues to engage its audience with innovative insights and scholarly contributions.

Documents d Analisi Geografica

Advancing Geographical Insights for a Global Audience
Publisher: UNIV AUTONOMA BARCELONAISSN: 0212-1573Frequency: 2 issues/year

Documents d'Anàlisi Geogràfica is a distinguished academic journal published by Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, focusing on the fields of geography, planning, and earth-surface processes since its inception in 1988. With an Open Access policy implemented in 2012, the journal aims to facilitate the widespread dissemination of geographical research and insights, accessible to a global audience. Currently ranked in Q3 for both Earth-Surface Processes and Geography, Planning and Development categories, it serves as a vital platform for researchers, practitioners, and students to share their findings and enhance knowledge in these critical fields. The journal is indexed in Scopus, where it stands at rank #470 in Social Sciences and #106 in Earth and Planetary Sciences, reflecting its growing impact in relevant academic communities. Based in Barcelona, Spain, Documents d'Anàlisi Geogràfica continues to contribute substantially to geographical scholarship by exploring contemporary issues and advancements in a rapidly evolving world.

Urban Science

Unveiling Insights into Urban Environments
Publisher: MDPIISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Urban Science, published by MDPI in Switzerland, is a pioneering open access journal that has been serving the academic community since 2017. With a robust focus on understanding urban environments through various interdisciplinary lenses such as Environmental Science, Geography, Planning and Development, and Urban Studies, this journal aims to advance knowledge on the complexities of urban living and the challenges that modern cities face. Recognized for its impact, Urban Science holds prestigious rankings, including Q1 in Urban Studies and Q2 in multiple relevant categories. Its presence in leading databases like Scopus, where it stands among the top percentile ranks, underscores its contribution to critical dialogues in urban research. The journal’s commitment to accessibility, targeted toward researchers, professionals, and students alike, fosters an inclusive platform for disseminating innovative ideas and solutions necessary for sustainable urban development.

Information Geographique

Unveiling the Layers of Geographic Information
Publisher: ARMAND COLINISSN: 0020-0093Frequency: 4 issues/year

Information Geographique is a prominent academic journal dedicated to the field of geographic information science, published by the esteemed ARMAND COLIN. With its ISSN 0020-0093 and E-ISSN 1777-5876, this journal serves as a critical platform for the dissemination of innovative research, addressing the multifaceted aspects of geography and spatial analysis. Information Geographique aims to foster a deeper understanding of geographic phenomena and promote interdisciplinary dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students. Although it does not currently offer open access options, the journal's rich content encompasses studies that span from traditional cartography to cutting-edge geospatial technologies. Established in 1976, it has played a vital role in shaping the discourse within its field and continues to contribute to the academic community with thought-provoking articles and insightful analyses.

Geographia Polonica

Illuminating the World Through Geographic Insights
Publisher: POLISH ACAD SCIENCES, INST GEOGRAPHY & SPATIAL ORGANIZATIONISSN: 0016-7282Frequency: 4 issues/year

Geographia Polonica is a premier academic journal published by the Polish Academy of Sciences, Institute of Geography and Spatial Organization, renowned for its contributions to the field of geography and related disciplines. With a history spanning from 1972, it has evolved into a vital resource for researchers and professionals, addressing a wide spectrum of topics from cultural studies to urban planning and development. Geographia Polonica is indexed with impressive rankings in various categories, including a Q1 classification in Cultural Studies and significant positions in Earth and Planetary Sciences and Urban Studies, reflecting its influence and recognition in these critical areas. Although it operates under a traditional subscription model, its commitment to high-quality, peer-reviewed research ensures that the latest findings and advancements are accessible to the academic community. With its rich archival content and contemporary insights, Geographia Polonica serves as an essential platform for scholarly dialogue, making it an invaluable reference for students, researchers, and professionals eager to explore the complexities of spatial organization and geographical phenomena in a global context.

APPLIED GEOGRAPHY

Advancing knowledge for a sustainable geospatial future.
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0143-6228Frequency: 10 issues/year

APPLIED GEOGRAPHY, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, stands as a premier journal within the fields of environmental science, geography, planning and development, as well as tourism, leisure, and hospitality management. With an impressive 2023 impact factor that reflects its high citation rates, this journal is ranked Q1 in several categories, underscoring its significance and influence in interdisciplinary research. Covering a broad range of topics from innovative environmental practices to spatial analysis and socio-economic factors affecting tourism, APPLIED GEOGRAPHY promotes insightful discussions and practical applications that are vital for advancing knowledge and practice in these fields. Researchers, professionals, and students will find the journal's rigorous peer-reviewed articles invaluable for staying informed about the latest trends and findings impacting the geospatial landscape. As an essential resource, APPLIED GEOGRAPHY aims to foster interdisciplinary collaborations and inspire scholarly dialogue, making it a cornerstone for those engaged in the study and application of geography across various sectors.

Cadernos de Geografia

Empowering Researchers with Inclusive Geographical Discourse
Publisher: UNIV COIMBRA, FAC LETRASISSN: 0871-1623Frequency: 1 issue/year

Cadernos de Geografia is a distinguished biannual journal published by UNIVERSIDADE DE COIMBRA, FACULDADE DE LETRAS, dedicated to the field of geography and related social sciences. With its ISSN 0871-1623 and E-ISSN 2183-4016, this journal has been a prominent platform for the dissemination of high-quality research since it became open access in 2012. Situated in Coimbra, Portugal, it aims to foster academic excellence by providing an inclusive space for innovative studies that explore contemporary geographical issues. Cadernos de Geografia encourages submissions that address diverse aspects of geography, ranging from environmental studies to urban planning, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. As a part of the growing trend in open-access publishing, it enhances the global reach and accessibility of geographical research, thereby contributing to the enrichment of knowledge in the field.