Editorial - A message from the editorial team_2025.

Abstract

As we close out another year, it’s time to reflect on our noteworthy progress in 2024. The past year has been particularly exciting, with an increase in submissions, including insightful feature articles, comprehensive reviews, and groundbreaking research from scientists around the globe. The diversity of topics covered not only highlights the vastness of our field but also emphasizes the crucial role polymers play in addressing some of today’s most pressing challenges. One of the standout features this year has been the strong focus on novelty in both synthesis and application. Polymer science is evolving rapidly, with innovations in material synthesis and processing unlocking new, high-performance materials designed for a wide range of applications. Environmental science and nanomedicine have emerged as key areas of research. The global push for sustainability has led to an increase in studies on biodegradable polymers and materials for environmental cleanup. These advances are critical because, as we develop new polymeric materials, we must also consider their long-term impact on the environment. Polymers are also playing an ever-increasing role in improving human health. From advancing drug delivery systems to enabling breakthroughs in tissue engineering, polymers are revolutionizing the way we treat diseases and manage healthcare. This year’s articles have explored innovative ways to design polymer-based systems that could offer solutions to some of the toughest health challenges. Another exciting development has been the growing focus on polymeric composites for energy technologies. With the rising demand for sustainable energy, polymers are playing an essential in the development of energy storage systems such as batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. None of this progress would have been possible without the collaborative efforts of our authors, reviewers, and Editorial Advisory Board. The dedication and expertise of all parties have been instrumental in shaping the journal and maintaining high standards. We are also thrilled to announce the launch of an Early Career Editorial Advisory Board. This new initiative will connect with emerging researchers and bring fresh perspectives to the journal, further energizing its dynamic nature. We hope it will encourage innovation and foster meaningful collaborations across generations of scientists. We also look forward to introducing special issues to showcase the active research in polymer science in different countries, as well as highlighting advances in key areas of polymer science. Looking ahead, we’re committed to continuing to expand the reach and impact of the journal. Our goal is to be a key platform for newcomers and seasoned researchers, helping everyone stay informed on the latest developments in polymer science. We would also like to thank our outgoing Editor-in-Chief Prof. Patrick Theato, who steered the journal to its present success over the past several years. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors. We would also like to thank Ms. Hiromi Uchida, and the publication support team from Taylor and Francis for their constant support with the publication process. Finally, on behalf of the editorial team, we’d like to thank all of our authors, reviewers, and readers; and wish them all the best in 2025. We’re excited for another year of advancements and collaborations that will continue to drive the field of polymer science forward!