Announcements

This year, MDPI celebrates Environmental and Earth Sciences Week under the theme “Science for a Thriving Planet!”. As we honor this week, we also align with the United Nations’ call to action by recognizing key global observances: 21 March as the International Day of Forests and World Day for Glaciers, 22 March as World Water Day, and 23 March as World Meteorological Day. These observances highlight the interconnectedness of forests, water, weather, and climate in shaping a sustainable future.

Hereby, we are pleased to officially launch the campaign “MDPI 2024 Most Popular Cover in Environmental and Earth Sciences”, which aims to reinforce the critical role science plays in understanding, protecting, and sustaining our world.

What’s the cover?
For this campaign, MDPI highlights a paper in the form of an issue cover for each issue. We selected 15 covers in 2024 in the field of forests, water and meteorology. Many cover stories report important research results or innovative methods with impressive images.

What’s standard when selecting the popular cover?
The criteria that will be considered for selection are as follows:

• The importance or innovation of research in the fields of forests, water, glaciers, or meteorology;
• Quality of the cover image.

How many winners will there be?

• There will be three covers granted the “MDPI 2024 Most Popular Cover”.

What’s the prize for each winner?

• A CHF 300 Article-Processing Charge (APC) voucher (corresponding author);
• An electronic certificate.

How to pick your favorite cover?
To cast your vote, please visit the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z8B3BDQ.

The voting will be open from 19 February to 12 March 2025. The winners will be announced on the MDPI website by 21 March.

MDPI, a pioneer in scholarly open access publishing, and the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine), Singapore, proudly announce the successful conclusion of the first edition the MDPI Early Career Researcher Awards. The awards, which recognize outstanding contributions to medical and biomedical research, were presented to six exceptional researchers during an awards ceremony held at LKCMedicine HQ Building on 28 November 2024.

Honoring Excellence in Research

The awards recognize exceptional postdoctoral researchers and Ph.D. students who have demonstrated outstanding originality, innovation, and impact in their respective fields. We are honored to announce the winners of the 2024 edition:

Early Career Researcher (Postdoc) Award:

• Dr. Theresia Handayani Mina, “Adiposity and Metabolic Health in Asian Populations: An Epidemiological Study Using Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Singapore”;
• Dr. Erfan Rezvani Ghomi, “Wound Healing Improvement by Novel Aligned Antimicrobial Nanofibrous 3D Scaffolds”;
• Dr. Yadollah Ranjbar Slamloo, “Functional Alterations of The Prefrontal Circuit Underlying Cognitive Aging in Mice”.

Early Career Researcher (Ph.D.) Award:

• Pritisha Rozario, “Mechanistic Basis for Potassium Efflux-Driven Activation of the Human NLRP1 Inflammasome”;

• Michelle Law Cheok Yien, “Chikungunya Virus Nonstructural Protein 1 is a Versatile RNA Capping and Decapping Enzyme”;
• Yin Ruoyu, “The Use of Digital Mental Health and Wellbeing Tools in Older Adults: A Mixed Method Study”.

Our collaboration highlights a shared commitment to recognizing exceptional talent and research within the academic community, addressing today’s healthcare challenges, and inspiring continued innovation.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Building on the success of the first edition, MDPI and LKCMedicine are excited to announce that the 2025 MDPI Early Researcher Awards will continue to celebrate excellence and innovation in medical research. The next edition promises to expand its scope, introducing new categories and providing even greater recognition for impactful research.

Further details on the 2025 awards, including nomination criteria and timelines, will be shared in the coming months. We remain committed to fostering a culture of research excellence and collaboration within the global scientific community.

Conference: First Ocean Decade International Coastal Cities Conference
Date: 26–27 February 2025
Location: Qingdao, China

MDPI will be attending the First Ocean Decade International Coastal Cities Conference, which will be held from 26 to 27 February 2025, as an exhibitor, and we welcome researchers from different backgrounds to visit and share their latest ideas with us.

The conference is organized by the Qingdao Municipal People’s Government and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC-UNESCO). The theme of the conference is “Better Ocean, Better City”. Building upon the momentum and outcomes of the 2024 Ocean Decade Conference, this conference will mark a pivotal moment in accelerating action for the newly launched “Cities with the Ocean” platform and be a major step towards the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference and the planned pre-Conference special event on “Ocean Rise and Resilience”.

The following MDPI journals will be represented:

• Oceans;
• Coasts;
• Conservation;
• Diversity;
• Environments;
• Hydrology;
• Land;
• Microplastics;
• Pollutants;
• Resources;
• Urban Science;
• Waste;
• Water;
• Clean Technol.

If you are planning to attend this conference, please do not hesitate to start a conversation with us online. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person at the conference and answering any questions that you may have. For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://oceandecade.org/zh/events/first-ocean-decade-international-coastal-cities-conference-better-ocean-better-city/.

We are pleased to share with you a recent interview held with Dr. Solmaz Fathololoumi, one of the winners of the Water 2025 Travel Award.

The following is an interview with Dr. Solmaz Fathololoumi:

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your field of research?

My name is Solmaz Fathololoumi. I have a background in soil science, having completed my Ph.D. in soil physics and conservation. Currently, I am a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Guelph, Canada, specializing in the use of remote sensing data and advanced modeling techniques for digital soil mapping and precision agriculture. My research focuses on developing field-scale management decisions to improve sustainable agricultural practices by enhancing soil health, monitoring land degradation, and optimizing land resource utilization. Additionally, I explore sensor applications and geospatial technologies to address environmental challenges, promote better land management, and support food security.

2. Where did you obtain journal award participation information? In the previous cooperation with MDPI, what impressed you most?

A few years ago, while submitting my manuscript, I discovered the “Journal Awards” option on the journal’s website. After reading about it, I decided to apply. What stood out the most during this experience was the fairness and impartiality of the evaluation process, which I greatly value. The experience highlighted the transparency and integrity of the procedures, further solidifying my positive perception of the process.

Throughout my collaboration with MDPI, I’ve experienced a smooth and professional editorial process. The prompt communication, thorough peer review, and commitment to open access publishing have been invaluable. MDPI’s approach ensures the broader dissemination of research, aligning with my belief in making scientific knowledge accessible to a wider audience. The user-friendly submission platform and responsive team have also greatly enhanced the experience.

3. After winning this award for the first time, how did the award help or have a positive impact on your research career?

Winning the travel award was both motivating and encouraging. It helped by partially covering conference costs, which was invaluable as attending international conferences is essential for staying scientifically updated and building networks. Additionally, the award strengthened my academic profile, marking an important milestone in my career. Overall, it served as both a source of motivation and a stepping stone to further advancing my research journey.

4. As the winner of this award again, is there anything you would like to express?

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the evaluation committee and the editorial team of Water for their fair and thoughtful judgment, as well as their unwavering commitment to supporting young and motivated researchers. Their encouragement assures us that every effort is worthwhile, inspiring us to pursue our journey with greater confidence and determination. Regardless of how many times one applies for or receives this award, the key is to remain steadfast in achieving goals and demonstrating efforts through tangible achievements like publications. This assurance that our hard work is valued and recognized is deeply motivating.

Knowing that prominent scientists stand behind us, offering their support as long as we remain dedicated to advancing science, is a powerful source of inspiration. I am deeply grateful for the recognition and support this award provides. It reinforces my commitment to research and motivates me to strive for excellence. Beyond recognition, the award serves as a valuable resource, enabling me to explore new opportunities, attend conferences, and collaborate with fellow researchers, ultimately advancing my contributions to the field.

5. Water is an open access journal, as you know, so what is your opinion on the open access model of publication?

Although publishing in open access journals requires a financial contribution, I believe the open access model is incredibly valuable for the sharing of knowledge and experiences. It ensures that research is accessible to a global audience, including those who may not have access to subscription-based journals. This inclusivity fosters collaboration, accelerates the exchange of ideas, and enhances the impact of scientific findings.

Moreover, open access publications contribute to bridging the gap between academia and industry, enabling practitioners, policymakers, and educators to apply research outcomes more effectively. While the costs may pose challenges, the benefits of promoting transparency, accessibility, and equitable knowledge dissemination far outweigh them. I deeply value this model as a way to ensure that science serves the broader community and supports global progress.

6. What advice do you have for researchers who will pursue this path?

The research journey can be long and challenging, but staying curious and passionate about one's work is essential for maintaining motivation. Focusing on quality is equally important; producing high-quality research leads to more meaningful contributions to the field and ensures that efforts are acknowledged, as evidenced by the MDPI award process.

Collaboration is another key aspect. Encouraging researchers to work with colleagues both within and outside their fields can bring diverse perspectives and open doors to new opportunities. It’s also important to remind researchers that rejection and setbacks are a natural part of the process. These should be viewed as learning experiences that improve their work and approach, fostering resilience and perseverance, which are critical for success.

I would also highlight the importance of staying engaged with the research community by attending conferences, joining academic networks, and sharing ideas. Networking often leads to valuable collaborations and new insights that can help researchers grow. Similarly, open access publishing should be encouraged as it ensures broader visibility and impact, benefiting both the academic community and society at large.

Lastly, effective time management is crucial. It helps researchers stay organized, manage stress, and maintain a healthy work–life balance. Emphasizing the need for continuous learning and staying updated with the latest tools and techniques is equally important. Resources provided by generous publishers like MDPI can support researchers in these efforts, offering valuable opportunities not just for academics but for anyone with a passion for science.

We are pleased to share with you a recent interview held with Dr. Hongxu Zhou, one of the winners of the Water 2025 Travel Award.

Name: Dr. Hongxu Zhou
Affiliation: Illinois Sustainable Technology Center, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA
Interests: water pollution control; biochar; agricultural water quality; contaminant remediation; sustainability assessment

Dr. Hongxu Zhou joined the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) in 2024 as a postdoc research associate. He is dedicated to providing practical engineering solutions to address water quality issues in the agricultural context. At ISTC, his current research focuses on the utilization of biochar systems for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) destruction.

The following is an interview with Dr. Hongxu Zhou:

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us more about your field of research?

I am a postdoc research associate at the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Before that, I earned my Ph.D. from the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I am dedicated to providing practical engineering solutions to address water quality issues in the agricultural context. My research focuses on water quality management, the treatment of both traditional and emerging contaminants, and advancing the circular economy. Through innovative eco-treatment and natural-based systems, such as engineered biochar application and denitrifying woodchip bioreactor systems, I integrate lab-scale studies, field-scale demonstrations, and sustainability analysis to understand how these technologies not only help improve water quality but also promote sustainable practices, addressing the critical balance between pollution mitigation and resource reuse. At ISTC, my current research focuses on the utilization of biochar systems for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction.

2. Where did you obtain information about the Water Travel Award? What impressed you most about your previous collaboration with MDPI?

I learned about journal award participation through my advisor, Dr. Rabin Bhattarai, who has served as a Guest Editor for the Water journal for a long time. He highly values the journal for its commitment to publishing impactful research in water sciences and its professional review process. What impressed me the most was the responsiveness of the editors and offices. They consistently reply on time and maintain clear and professional communication. Additionally, the transparent editorial communication and the opportunity to collaborate with a global network of researchers have been truly inspiring.

3. As the winner of this award, is there anything you would like to express?

I am deeply honored to receive this award, which reflects the hard work and dedication of not only myself but also the incredible support I’ve received from my mentors, colleagues, and collaborators. This recognition motivates me to continue pursuing impactful research and contributing to advancements in water quality management and sustainable solutions. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and the trust placed in my work. I also thank the Water editorial team for recognizing our research on the biochar-based system for agricultural water management.

4. As you are aware, Water is an open access journal, so what is your opinion of the open access model of publication?

I believe the open access model of publication is a significant step toward making research more accessible and impactful. I appreciate the open access model as it aligns with the goal of advancing science for the benefit of society.

5. What advice do you have for researchers who want to pursue this path?

My advice to researchers is to fully embrace interdisciplinary approaches in their work. Many of today’s complex challenges, especially in areas like water quality and sustainable development, require solutions that bridge multiple fields of study. Collaborating with experts from diverse disciplines allows you to gain fresh perspectives, explore innovative methodologies, and develop holistic solutions. It’s also important to stay open-minded, as interdisciplinary work often involves stepping out of your comfort zone and learning from others.

World Wetlands Day is celebrated each year on 2 February to raise awareness about wetlands. This day also marks the anniversary of the Convention on Wetlands, which was adopted as an international treaty in 1971.

Nearly 90% of the world’s wetlands have been degraded since the 1700s, and we are losing wetlands three times faster than forests. Yet, wetlands are critically important ecosystems that contribute to biodiversity, climate mitigation and adaptation, freshwater availability, world economies and more.

“Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future” is the theme for World Wetlands Day 2025.

“Extracting Wetlands in Coastal Louisiana from the Operational VIIRS and GOES-R Flood Products”
by Tianshu Yang, Donglian Sun, Sanmei Li, Satya Kalluri, Lihang Zhou, Sean Helfrich, Meng Yuan, Qingyuan Zhang, William Straka, Viviana Maggioni and Fernando Miralles-Wilhelm
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(20), 3769; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16203769

“Random Forest Classifier Algorithm of Geographic Resources Analysis Support System Geographic Information System for Satellite Image Processing: Case Study of Bight of Sofala, Mozambique”
by Polina Lemenkova
Coasts 2024, 4(1), 127-149; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts4010008

“Evaluation of Remote Sensing Products for Wetland Mapping in the Irtysh River Basin”
by Kaiyue Luo, Alim Samat, Jilili Abuduwaili and Wenbo Li
Geosciences 2024, 14(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14010014

“Monitoring of Coastal Dunes and Lagoons: Important Ecosystems to Safeguard”
by Carmine Massarelli, Claudia Campanale and Vito Felice Uricchio
Environments 2023, 10(12), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10120211

“Monitoring the Kotychi Lagoon in Western Peloponnese, Greece, Using Remote Sensing Techniques and Environmental Assessment”
by Dionysios N. Apostolopoulos, Dionysios Giannikopoulos, Alexis Ramfos, Sara Faulwetter, Dionisios Panagiotaras, Konstantinos G. Nikolakopoulos and Pavlos Avramidis
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(2), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11020411

Special Issues:

“Monitoring and Simulation of Wetland Ecological Processes (Second Edition)”	“Remote Sensing for Mapping and Monitoring Wetlands and Their Ecosystems”

“Birds as Cultural Ambassadors: Bridging Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Conservation in Wetland Planning”
by Michela Ingaramo, Anna Rita Bernadette Cammerino, Vincenzo Rizzi, Maurizio Gioiosa and Massimo Monteleone
Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10286; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310286

“Three Decades of Inundation Dynamics in an Australian Dryland Wetland: An Eco-Hydrological Perspective”
by Indishe P. Senanayake, In-Young Yeo and George A. Kuczera
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(17), 3310; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16173310

“Impacts of Freshwater Sources on Salinity Structure in a Large, Shallow Estuary”
by Mohamed Z. Moustafa, Zhen-Gang Ji and John Hamrick
Environments 2024, 11(4), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11040072

“Priming of Soil Organic Carbon Decomposition Induced by Exogenous Organic Carbon Input Depends on Vegetation and Soil Depth in Coastal Salt Marshes”
by Yaru Zhang, Xue Li, Baohua Xie, Xiaojie Wang, Mingliang Zhao, Guangxuan Han, Yongjin Chen and Weimin Song
Soil Syst. 2024, 8(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems8010034

“Forest Fuel Bed Variation in Tropical Coastal Freshwater Forested Wetlands Disturbed by Fire”
by Romeo de Jesús Barrios-Calderón, Dulce Infante Mata, José Germán Flores Garnica and Jony R. Torres
Forests 2024, 15(1), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15010158

“Horizontal Rates of Wetland Migration Appear Unlikely to Keep Pace with Shoreline Transgression under Conditions of 21st Century Accelerating Sea Level Rise along the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern USA”
by Randall W. Parkinson
Coasts 2024, 4(1), 213-225; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts4010012

“Ecological Basis of Ecosystem Services and Management of Wetlands Dominated by Common Reed (Phragmites australis): European Perspective”
by Hana Čížková, Tomáš Kučera, Brigitte Poulin and Jan Květ
Diversity 2023, 15(5), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15050629

“Examining the Hydro-Climatic Drivers of Lagoon Breaching and Healing in a Deltaic Barrier”
by Juan Felipe Gómez, Eva Kwoll, Ian J. Walker and Andrés F. Orejarena
Geosciences 2023, 13(4), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences13040118

“Scientific Evidence for the Effectiveness of Mangrove Forests in Reducing Floods and Associated Hazards in Coastal Areas”
by Christopher Ihinegbu, Stefan Mönnich and Thecla Akukwe
Climate 2023, 11(4), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11040079

“Dynamic Modeling of the Trophic Status of an Urban Tropical Wetland under ENSO Conditions”
by Leidy Gisselle García-León, Julio Eduardo Beltrán-Vargas and Carlos Alfonso Zafra-Mejía
Climate 2023, 11(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11030061

“Characterization of Phosphate Compounds along a Catena from Arable and Wetland Soil to Sediments in a Baltic Sea lagoon”
by Julia Prüter, Rhena Schumann, Wantana Klysubun and Peter Leinweber
Soil Syst. 2023, 7(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems7010015

“A Study of the Influence of Environmental Factors on Water–Heat Exchange Process in Alpine Wetlands”
by Yan Xie, Jun Wen, Yulin Zhang, Jinlei Chen and Xianyu Yang
Atmosphere 2023, 14(12), 1802; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14121802

“Conservation and Restoration of Mangroves in Response to Invasion of Spartina alterniflora Based on the MaxEnt Model: A Case Study in China”
by Lina Cui, Uta Berger, Minmin Cao, Yaqi Zhang, Junming He, Lianghao Pan and Jiang Jiang
Forests 2023, 14(6), 1220; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14061220

Special Issues:

“Wetland Conservation and Ecological Restoration”	“Effect of Mangrove Ecosystems on Coastal Ecology and Climate Change”

“Water CO₂ Emission Monitoring in a Romanian Peri-Urban Wetland to Enhance GHG Reporting”
by György Deák, Natalia Enache, Lucian Laslo, Monica Matei, Madalina Georgiana Boboc and Cristina Ileana Covaliu Mierla
Atmosphere 2024, 15(11), 1345; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15111345

“Surface Water (SW) and Shallow Groundwater (SGW) Nutrient Concentrations in Riparian Wetlands of a Mixed Land-Use Catchment”
by Bidisha Faruque Abesh, James T. Anderson and Jason A. Hubbart
Land 2024, 13(4), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/land13040409

“Success Factors and Challenges: Implications of Real Options Valuation of Constructed Wetlands as Nature-Based Solutions for Wastewater Treatment”
by Casper Boongaling Agaton and Patricia Marie Caparas Guila
Resources 2024, 13(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13010011

“Evaluation of Phosphate and E. coli Attenuation in a Natural Wetland Receiving Drainage from an Urbanized Catchment”
by Charles Humphrey, Jarrod Underwood, Guy Iverson, Randall Etheridge, Mike O’Driscoll and Avian White
Hydrology 2024, 11(6), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology11060074

“Quantifying the Nitrogen-Removal Performance of a Constructed Wetland Dominated by Diffuse Agricultural Groundwater Inflows Using a Linked Catchment–Wetland Model”
by Linh Hoang, James P. S. Sukias, Valerio Montemezzani and Chris C. Tanner
Water 2023, 15(9), 1689; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15091689

“Assessing the Zooplankton Metacommunity (Branchiopoda and Copepoda) from Mediterranean Wetlands in Agricultural Landscapes”
by Juan Diego Gilbert, Francisco J. Márquez and Francisco Guerrero
Diversity 2023, 15(3), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030362

“A Connectivity Approach to Agricultural Diffuse Pollution in Tropical Montane Catchments Dominated by Swidden Landscapes”
by Luc Sandevoir, Laurent Lespez and Candide Lissak
Land 2023, 12(4), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12040784

“Habitat Mapping and Spatiotemporal Overlap of the Amazon River Dolphin, Fishers, and Tourism in the Central Region of the Brazilian Amazon”
by Cadi Y. Fung, Brad G. Peter and Cynthia S. Simmons
Conservation 2023, 3(4), 523-542; https://doi.org/10.3390/conservation3040034

Special Issues:

“Impacts of Climate Change and Human Activities on Wetland Hydrology”	“Methods and Practices for the Sustainable Management of Lake and River Hydrological Systems”

The editorial team at Water extends our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated reviewers whose expertise and commitment have been key to the journal’s success in 2024. Last year, Water received 17,717 review reports from 6975 reviewers representing 119 countries and regions worldwide.

To recognize the invaluable time, effort, and attention to detail that each reviewer dedicates, Water expresses its sincere gratitude through an annual acknowledgment of reviewers. Additionally, the journal highlights exceptional contributors by regularly publishing the “Exceptional Reviewer List”. As a further token of appreciation, all reviewers are eligible for the Outstanding Reviewer Award, which honors their essential role in enhancing the quality of our publications.

We are honored to recognize the reviewers who allowed us to publish their names each year. The names of these reviewers are listed below in alphabetical order by first name:

The following have been selected by the Editorial Board of Water (ISSN: 2073-4441) as Issue Cover Articles for 2024. They focus on a variety of areas within the journal’s scope, and we hope that they can provide insights and a point of reference for scholars in related fields.

	1. “Seasonal and Size-Related Fish Microhabitat Use Upstream and Downstream from Small Hydropower Plants” by José M. Santos, Renan Leite, Maria J. Costa, Francisco Godinho, Maria M. Portela, António N. Pinheiro and Isabel Boavida Water 2024, 16(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16010037 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/1/37
	2. “Removing Plastic Waste from Rivers: A Prototype-Scale Experimental Study on a Novel River-Cleaning Concept” by Yannic Fuchs, Susanne Scherbaum, Richard Huber, Nils Rüther and Arnd Hartlieb Water 2024, 16(2), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16020248 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/2/248
	3. “Analysing Urban Flooding Risk with CMIP5 and CMIP6 Climate Projections” by Rafiu Oyelakin, Wenyu Yang and Peter Krebs Water 2024, 16(3), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16030474 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/3/474
	4. “A Case Study of a Reverse Osmosis Based Pumped Energy Storage Plant in Canary Islands” by Juan Carlos Lozano Medina, Carlos Alberto Mendieta Pino, Alejandro Ramos Martín and Federico León Zerpa Water 2024, 16(4), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16040515 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/4/515
	5. “Assessing Changes in Exceptional Rainfall in Portugal Using ERA5-Land Reanalysis Data (1981/1982–2022/2023)” by Luis Angel Espinosa, Maria Manuela Portela and Salem Gharbia Water 2024, 16(5), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16050628 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/5/628
	6. “The Impacts of River Channel Blockages Caused by Sliding Embankment Collapses during Earthquakes” by Norio Harada, Yoshifumi Satofuka and Takahisa Mizuyama Water 2024, 16(6), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16060822 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/6/822
	7. “Cause Analysis of Salinity Intrusion by Environmental Changes Considering Water Intake and Sand Mining on Seomjin River Estuary Using Model for Maintaining Corbicula Habitats” by Chunggil Jung, Gayeong Lee and Jongyoon Park Water 2024, 16(7), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16071035 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/7/1035
	8. “Transport of Floating Plastics through the Fluvial Vector: The Impact of Riparian Zones” by Manousos Valyrakis, Gordon Gilja, Da Liu and Gaston Latessa Water 2024, 16(8), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16081098 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/8/1098
	9. “A Proposal for Sediment Control Countermeasures in Non-Flowing Mountain Streams” by Norio Harada, Yoshifumi Satofuka and Takahisa Mizuyama Water 2024, 16(9), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16091197 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/9/1197
	10. “Water Quality and the First-Flush Effect in Roof-Based Rainwater Harvesting, Part I: Water Quality and Soil Accumulation” by Jessica J. Lay, Jason R. Vogel, Jason B. Belden, Glenn O. Brown and Daniel E. Storm Water 2024, 16(10), 1402; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16101402 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/10/1402
	11. “The Transformation of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in the Aquatic Environment of a Fluorochemical Industrial Park” by Jingqi Huang, Zhen Zhao, Jing Liu and Shiyue Li Water 2024, 16(11), 1513; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16111513 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/11/1513
	12. “Factors Governing Site and Charge Density of Dissolved Natural Organic Matter” by by Rolf D. Vogt, Øyvind A. Garmo, Kari Austnes, Øyvind Kaste, Ståle Haaland, James E. Sample, Jan-Erik Thrane, Liv Bente Skancke, Cathrine B. Gundersen  and Heleen A. de Wit Water 2024, 16(12), 1716; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121716 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/12/1716
	13. “Future Water: A Multi-University International Web Seminar” by Michael Pointl, João Marques, Frances C. Pick, Camilo Salcedo, Ina Vertommen, Mohamad Zeidan, Joby Boxall, Maria C. Cunha, Daniela Fuchs-Hanusch, Donghwi Jung et al. Water 2024, 16(13), 1862; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16131862 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/13/1862
	14. “Groundwater Springs Influence Fish Community Distribution and Trout Condition across a Longitudinal Gradient in a Coldwater Catchment in Southeastern Minnesota, USA” by Will L. Varela, Neal D. Mundahl, David F. Staples, Silas Bergen, Jennifer Cochran-Biederman, Cole R. Weaver and Martin C. Thoms Water 2024, 16(14), 1961; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16141961 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/14/1961
	15. “Adsorption of a Multicomponent Pharmaceutical Wastewater on Charcoal-Based Activated Carbon: Equilibrium and Kinetics” by Mina Asheghmoalla and Mehrab Mehrvar Water 2024, 16(15), 2086; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16152086 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/15/2086
	16. “Sedimentological, Geochemical, and Environmental Assessment in an Eastern Mediterranean, Stressed Coastal Setting: The Gialova Lagoon, SW Peloponnese, Greece” by Maria Papakonstantinou, Spyros Sergiou, Maria Geraga, Amalia Prandekou, Xenophon Dimas, Elias Fakiris, Dimitris Christodoulou and George Papatheodorou Water 2024, 16(16), 2312; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16162312 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/16/2312
	17. “Hydrodynamic Model of the Area of the Żelazny Most Mining Waste Storage Facility to Reconstruct the Migration of Saline Groundwater” by Jacek Gurwin, Marek Wcisło, Stanisław Staśko, Sebastian Buczyński, Magdalena Modelska, Tomasz Olichwer and Robert Tarka Water 2024, 16(17), 2431; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16172431 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/17/2431
	18. “Winter Season Outdoor Cultivation of an Autochthonous Chlorella-Strain in a Pilot-Scale Prototype for Urban Wastewater Treatment” by Elisa Benà, Pierluigi Giacò, Sara Demaria, Roberta Marchesini, Michele Melis, Giulia Zanotti, Costanza Baldisserotto and Simonetta Pancaldi Water 2024, 16(18), 2635; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16182635 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/18/2635
	19. “Experimental Investigation of Bridge Scour under Pressure Flow Conditions” by Müsteyde Baduna Koçyiğit and Önder Koçyiğit Water 2024, 16(19), 2773; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16192773 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/19/2773
	20. “Dual Method for Comprehensive Evaluation of Sustainable Water Resources’ Utilization Capacity in Huangshui River in Yellow River Basin, China” by Lijuan Fan, Ronglan Li, Ju Gao, Fen Zhao and Chunhui Li Water 2024, 16(20), 2878; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16202878 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/20/2878
	21. “Longitudinal Investigation of Groundwater and Surface Water Interaction of Two Gravel Pit Lakes in Central Texas: Chemical and Flow Implications” by William A. Brewer, Claudia R. Dawson and Joe C. Yelderman, Jr. Water 2024, 16(21), 3068; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16213068 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/21/3068
	22. “Perched Hydrologic Systems of the Monahans and the Kermit Dune Fields, Northern Chihuahuan Desert, West Texas, USA” by Alix Fournier, Steven L. Forman and Connor Mayhack Water 2024, 16(22), 3188; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16223188 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/22/3188
	23. “Equity Assessment of Groundwater Vulnerability and Risk in Drinking Water Supplies in Arid Regions” by Simone A. Williams, Sharon B. Megdal, Adriana A. Zuniga-Teran, David M. Quanrud and Gary Christopherson Water 2024, 16(23), 3520; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16233520 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/23/3520
	24. “Evaluation of Microbial Biosorbents for Efficient Cd(II) Removal from Aqueous Solutions” by Mihaela Roșca, Mariana Diaconu, Raluca-Maria Hlihor, Petronela Cozma, Bruna Silva, Teresa Tavares and Maria Gavrilescu Water 2024, 16(24), 3660; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16243660 Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/16/24/3660

Nine new journals covering multiple subjects launched their inaugural issues in December 2024. We are excited to be able to share with you the newest research rooted in the value of open access.

We would like to express our deepest appreciation to all of the Editorial Board Members, and each journal will ensure its high-quality output by using excellent editorial and rigorous peer-review processes, to ensure that the articles achieve high impact and visibility.

Please feel free to browse and discover more about the new journals below.

Journal	Founding Editor-in-Chief	Journal Topics (Selected)
	Prof. Dr. Zhaoyang Dong City University of Hong Kong, China Editorial | View inaugural issue	energy storage technologies; energy storage system management; energy storage applications; strategies in renewable energy generation grid integration; distributed storage systems; economics and markets for energy storage View journal scope | Submit an article
	Prof. Dr. Yang-Hui He 1. London Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Royal Institution, UK 2. University of Oxford, UK Editorial | View inaugural issue	Euclidean geometry; differential geometry; algebraic geometry; complex geometry; discrete geometry; computational geometry; geometric group theory;  convex geometry View journal scope | Submit an article
	Dr. Michel Planat Université de Franche-Comté, France Editorial | View inaugural issue	differential topology; algebraic topology; manifold topology; homology theory; low-dimensional topology; fuzzy sets View journal scope | Submit an article
	Prof. Dr. Rashid Al Abri 1. Sultan Qaboos University, Oman 2. Oman Medical Association, Oman Editorial | View inaugural issue	clinical practices as well as research and innovation in medical education, risk management in healthcare, and patient safety View journal scope | Submit an article
	Prof. Dr. Ecevit Bilgili* New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA *Prof. Dr. Ecevit Bilgili passed away before the completion of the inaugural issue. His dedication and vision for JPBI will always be remembered and serve as a guiding inspiration. Editorial | View inaugural issue	early drug discovery and development; product characterization and pre-clinical testing; drug delivery systems and drug design; active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production View journal scope | Submit an article
	Dr. Weiyong Liu Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China Editorial | View inaugural issue	theories, methodologies, technologies, and applications in the fields of laboratory medicine and clinical chemistry View journal scope | Submit an article
	Prof. Dr. Manuel Pedro Rodríguez Bolívar University of Granada, Spain Editorial | View inaugural issue	scientometrics; informetrics; bibliometrics; altmetrics; webometrics; research evaluation View journal scope | Submit an article
	Prof. Dr. Fei Fan Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China Editorial | View inaugural issue	regional growth theory and methods; regional system modeling and optimization; regional development policy; regional spatial evolution; environmental policy and instrument choice View journal scope | Submit an article
	Dr. Kevin Cianfaglione Université Catholique de Lille, France Editorial | View inaugural issue	wild species and their habitats; wild environments and biodiversity; natural environment management; wild land preservation View journal scope | Submit an article

We wish to thank everyone who has supported the development of open access publishing. You are welcome to send an application here, or contact the New Journal Committee (newjournal-committee@mdpi.com) if you would like to create more new journals.