Longest running conservation journal goes Open Access

Oryx, the international journal of conservation published by Cambridge University Press, is to become Open Access from January next year, in a move made possible by a grant from The Rufford Foundation.

From January 2021, the journal-which is the world's longest running conservation journal-will be free to anyone with an internet connection. Past content dating as far back as 1950 will be made freely available, as well as all new research which will be published Open Access from next year. Meanwhile unfunded authors will benefit from a new APC (article processing charge) waiver policy, also thanks to The Rufford Foundation, dedicated to nature conservation.

CUP publishes the journal on behalf of wildlife conservation charity Fauna & Flora International, and it is billed as the "go-to publication for anyone interested in biodiversity conservation, conservation policy and related social, economic and political issues".

Editor Dr Martin Fisher, who has overseen Oryx for almost 20 years, said: "This is the most significant development in the journal’s eminent history. Thanks to the support of the Rufford Foundation and Cambridge University Press’ commitment to Open Access publishing, the research published in Oryx will be freely accessible to all readers, no matter where they live or work."

He added: "To be most effective, conservation research needs to be read and shared widely without barriers to access. This move will support conservation scientists and practitioners globally and help to maximise the impact of vital research that has the potential to improve conservation management and practice.

"It will ensure greater visibility and impact for the high-quality research that the journal publishes, strengthening its contribution to conservation science."

Discounts and waivers are to be offered to researchers from developing countries "to ensure Oryx continues to support its broad and diverse author community". Authors from institutions covered by one of Cambridge University Press’ "Open Access Read & Publish" deals will be able to publish free of charge also.

CUP STM publishing director Caroline Black said: "It’s fantastic that we we’re able to publish Oryx as Open Access. Making such a highly respected journal available to all is a major step forward in our efforts to support open research. We’re committed to making all of our journal content available Open Access, reflecting the belief that the pursuit of knowledge benefits directly from collaboration, transparency, rapid dissemination and accessibility."