The bibliometric data used to devise the citation-based metrics were collected on January 12, 2026. A scientist’s position in this ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a refined bibliometric indicator that only includes publications and citation metrics strictly within the Environmental Sciences discipline under examination. This ensures the ranking accurately reflects domain-specific impact rather than general scholarly output.
Scope of Research and Selection Criteria
In constructing this ranking, a total of 279,971 scientist profiles were reviewed from a diverse array of bibliometric sources, spanning all scientific disciplines. Specifically, 368 scientist profiles affiliated with Environmental Sciences were identified and examined closely.
To qualify for this ranking, a researcher’s D-index needed to be at least 30, with a majority of their tier publications focused on Environmental Sciences. Additionally, recognition of awards and notable achievements within the field was incorporated as a qualitative factor in the evaluation process.
The D-index threshold is dynamically set in increments of 10 according to the estimated number of scholars within each discipline, ensuring that the top 1% of leading experts are systematically included. Furthermore, a proximity criterion mandates that the difference between a scientist’s general H-index and their discipline-specific D-index should be no greater than 30%, maintaining a strong alignment between overall productivity and domain expertise.
Additional Verification Practices
We acknowledge the inherent limitations of relying solely on raw bibliometric data to evaluate scholarly output. Therefore, all scientist profiles underwent meticulous manual verification. This process included cross-correlation of publication records against a broad spectrum of trustworthy and authoritative sources to confirm accuracy and attribution.
Although the number of publications in prominent journals and conference proceedings is not a direct factor influencing ranking position, it remains an important secondary indicator of a researcher’s substantive contribution to their field.
The rankings are ultimately established by assessing each researcher’s D-index, based on citation data drawn from OpenAlex and CrossRef — two of the most prominent and widely respected bibliometric databases accessible to the research community.
For a detailed exposition of the methodology employed in compiling this ranking, please refer to our methodology page.
Research.com Agenda and Vision
The mission behind the creation of this ranking is to inspire researchers, companies, and policymakers worldwide to identify emerging trends and leading experts within the Environmental Sciences domain. By providing a transparent and rigorous platform to recognize scientific excellence, Research.com aims to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across countries and institutions.
We believe that highlighting these top-performing scientists fosters an informed dialogue about research directions, promotes evidence-based decision-making, and ultimately advances the global scientific enterprise.
