Exploring green mining research trends through web of science: A bibliometric analysis based on VOSviewer and CiteSpace

With the growing emphasis on sustainable development, green mining has garnered increasing global attention due to its critical role in promoting environmentally responsible resource extraction. This study aims to systematically map the evolution, structure, and emerging trends of green mining research through bibliometric analysis and knowledge graph construction. A total of 523 publications retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection were analyzed using VOSviewer and CiteSpace to investigate research patterns, thematic developments, and intellectual structures within the field. The results reveal that green mining research has progressed through three distinct stages–embryonic, slow development, and rapid development—with a notable surge in output since 2016, particularly driven by emerging economies such as China. Network analyses identified key countries, institutions, and collaborative research teams that have significantly influenced the field’s advancement. Keyword co-occurrence and burst analyses uncovered major thematic clusters focusing on resource efficiency, environmental sustainability, technological innovation, ecological restoration, and policy development. These findings indicate a transition in the mining sector toward enhanced operational efficiency, interdisciplinary collaboration, and stronger commitments to environmental stewardship. The constructed knowledge graph offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the spatiotemporal evolution of green mining research, highlighting critical research domains and emerging frontiers. Overall, this study deepens the understanding of the evolution and knowledge structure of green mining, providing a strategic foundation for advancing academic research, guiding environmental policy development, and promoting sustainable practices across the mining industry.