2025 marked a significant milestone for the Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine (JEET) as it celebrates two decades of advancing research at the intersection of culture, nature, and health. Over the past 20 years, JEET has become a leading platform for studies on local and Indigenous ecological knowledge, ethnomedicine, and the cultural dimensions of sustainability.
A Legacy of Impact
Since its inception, JEET has published groundbreaking work that explores the intricate relationships between human societies and biodiversity, food systems, and health practices. The journal has played a pivotal role in:
- Amplifying ethnobiology’s contribution to ecological transition and sustainability sciences.
- Supporting urban transformations and citizen science initiatives.
- Creating a diverse, interdisciplinary forum for research on traditional and local knowledge.
20th Anniversary Collection
To honor this milestone, JEET curated a special anniversary collection featuring some of the most influential articles that have shaped the field. These works represent the journal’s breadth—from ethnobotanical surveys and cultural food practices to debates on conservation and health systems.
Explore the 20th Anniversary Collection
Highlights include:
- Studies on medicinal plant use across continents.
- Historical perspectives on ethnobotany in Amazonia and beyond.
- Research on cultural perceptions of health, such as diabetes among Indigenous communities.
New Debate Series, Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine: Bridging Eras between Continuity and Change
The anniversary also launched a Debate Collection, reflecting on the origins, evolution, and future of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine. These discussions emphasize:
- Building alliances between citizens and science through living labs.
- Exploring untapped areas of ethnobiological research.
- Strengthening the role of ethnobiology in sustainability and ecological transitions.
This new Debate collection follows another successful and appreciated series featuring hot topics in ethnosciences: The Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine Debates Series
Introducing the JEET Emerging Scientist Award
A highlight of this anniversary year is the introduction of the JEET Emerging Scientist Award in Ethnobiology. First launched in 2025, this annual award recognizes three early-career researchers who have made outstanding contributions to ethnobiology and ethnosciences.
- 2025 Winner: Naji Sulaiman
- Runners-up: Zhuo Cheng and Emiel De Meyer
Read more about the JEET Emerging Scientist Award
This award reflects JEET’s commitment to supporting the next generation of scholars and fostering innovation in ethnobiology and ethnomedicine.
Catch up with the most read and cited Review articles
If you haven't read them yet, don't miss some of the most read and cited Reviews published in the journal in 2024 and 2025:
The quest for Homer’s moly: exploring the potential of an early ethnobotanical complex
Socioeconomic benefits associated with bats
The influence of urbanization on local ecological knowledge: a systematic review
New article collections launched
Several new article collections were opened in 2025 and have been calling for submissions:
Ethnomicrobiology: the multiple relationships between humans and microorganisms
Sovereignty and sustainability: Emerging frontiers in African ethnobiology
Food heritage and food ethnobiology
Local nature knowledge: recent ethnobiological insight
Explore the Blog Series
As part of the celebrations, JEET launched a special blog series featuring reflections, stories, and insights from the global ethnobiology community.
Discover the Blog Series
A Thank You to Our Community
This celebration is a tribute to the authors, reviewers, and readers who have supported JEET’s mission for 20 years. Your contributions have helped shape a journal that continues to influence policy, research, and practice worldwide.