Mapping the Evolution of Green Finance Research and Development in Emerging Green Economies

Research on green and sustainable finance is increasing, crucial for advancing a green financial system and economic growth. Utilizing a Scopus database, this paper collects data and, through bibliometric analysis in R studio, visually explores research trends, hotspots, and fronts in green finance and sustainable development across top emerging green economies. From 2001 to 2022, publications in this field have grown annually, with China leading globally. Significant hotspots include urban total factor energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, regional economic development, climate adaptation, technological progress, green innovation, and transitioning from linear to circular economy models. The study anticipates future research to focus on refining industrial and financial structures that align sustainable, green development with superior ecological environment protection, highlighting the evolving nature of green finance research and its impact on promoting sustainable economic practices. •Steady increase in green finance research from 2001 to 2022.•Importance of green finance in promoting green financial systems and economic growth.•Focus areas: energy efficiency, low carbon emissions, climate change, technological advances, green innovation.•Future research to explore the enhancement of financial structures for green development with ecological protection.