Digital Preservation Policy

Document version 1.0. Last review: 31/01/2025.

1. Introduction

The Southern Journal of Sciences is committed to ensuring the long-term preservation and accessibility of all published content. This policy outlines our approach to digital preservation and our partnerships with leading preservation services.

2. Digital Preservation Schemes

The journal's content is continuously archived and preserved through the following arrangements:

  • Portico Digital Preservation Service

3. Access Rights and Protection

These preservation schemes provide:

  • Ability for libraries to activate perpetual access rights when needed
  • Protection of shared investments between libraries and publishers
  • Long-term preservation of scholarly content
  • Secure backup of all published materials

4. Preservation Standards

Our digital preservation strategy includes:

  • Regular content backup procedures
  • Multiple preservation copies across different geographic locations
  • Format migration to ensure long-term accessibility
  • Regular testing of archived materials

5. Physical Preservation Policy

The journal preserves content in:

  • PDF/A format for articles
  • XML format for metadata
  • Additional formats as required for supplementary materials


Physical Preservation Policy and Rationale

Document version 1.0. Last review: 31/01/2025.

1. Introduction

The Southern Journal of Sciences maintains a comprehensive physical preservation strategy alongside its digital preservation efforts. This dual approach ensures maximum resilience and accessibility of scientific knowledge for future generations.

2. Physical Preservation Implementation

The journal implements physical preservation through:

  • Official archiving at the National Library (Fundação Biblioteca Nacional - FBN)
  • Distribution of print copies to selected research libraries
  • Maintenance of archive copies at the journal's headquarters
  • Use of acid-free paper meeting archival standards

3. Rationale for Physical Preservation

Physical preservation offers unique advantages:

3.1. Technological Resilience
  • Immunity to Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) events
  • Independence from electronic systems
  • Resistance to cyber attacks
  • Protection against digital obsolescence
3.2. Accessibility Benefits
  • No power requirements for access
  • No computer or device needed
  • Direct physical interaction with content
  • Immediate visual verification of authenticity
3.3. Long-term Preservation Advantages
  • Proven centuries-long durability of paper archives
  • No format migration needed
  • No software/hardware compatibility issues
  • Independent of technological changes

4. National Library Partnership

Our partnership with the National Library (FBN) ensures:

  • Professional archival storage conditions
  • Temperature and humidity control
  • Protection against environmental hazards
  • Public accessibility through a trusted institution

5. Material Specifications

Physical copies are produced using:

  • Acid-free paper meeting ISO 9706 standards
  • Archival-quality binding materials
  • Fade-resistant inks
  • Moisture-resistant covers

6. Redundancy Strategy

Our physical preservation strategy includes:

  • Multiple archive locations
  • Geographic distribution of copies
  • Regular condition assessments
  • Documented preservation procedures

7. Access and Usage

Physical archives provide:

  • Direct access during technological failures
  • Backup for digital system outages
  • Historical research capabilities
  • Legal documentation purposes


Contact Information

For further information about the Southern Journal of Sciences digital preservation policy or to address any concerns, please contact our editorial office at: root@acaria.org.