Climate Finance and Sustainability: A Story Told Through the Journal of Cleaner Production

This study examines all research related to climate finance and sustainability published in the Journal of Cleaner Production between 2010 and 2024. It employs a bibliometric analysis in conjunction with a systematic literature review of 41 peer-reviewed articles to identify changes in research patterns, institutional development, and emerging thematic trends. Since 2015, research has shifted from primarily conceptual discussions to more empirical investigations, largely influenced by two major global developments: the Paris Agreement and the evolving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. The analysis focuses on three primary areas: the integration of green bonds, renewable energy finance, and blockchain technologies. While the journal exhibits strong publication activity from East Asian and European academic institutions, it remains underrepresented in contributions from the Global South, particularly in African contexts and the field of agricultural finance. The findings suggest that the journal serves as a critical conduit linking academic research with practical financial instruments that support sustainability. Future research should adopt multi-disciplinary approaches, aligning financial innovations with sector-specific applications, and prioritize vulnerable economies to advance global climate objectives. The study underscores the interconnected role of finance, policy, and technology as essential levers in achieving sustainable development goals.