Mapping the evolution of global clean cooking research: a bibliometric review of trends, gaps, and thematic trajectories

Clean cooking is a critical yet underprioritized area in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). This study presents a bibliometric analysis of 1105 peer-reviewed publications from 2010 to 2024, mapping the thematic and intellectual evolution of global clean cooking research. Using co-word analysis, thematic clustering, and strategic diagrams, the results show a shift from earlier priorities—such as biomass cookstoves and indoor air pollution—toward fuel stacking, energy transitions, financing mechanisms, and electric cooking. Despite increased research activity, the field remains fragmented with limited interdisciplinary integration. To address these gaps, the study introduces two guiding perspectives. The first applies a multi-level governance lens to examine macro (policy), meso (institutional), and micro (household) factors influencing adoption and sustained use. The second offers a transition readiness perspective to assess enabling conditions—covering access, affordability, behavioral factors, policy and institutional capacity, and sustainability—without delving into excessive detail. Findings highlight persistent regional disparities, the emergence of new research fronts, and the need for more integrated approaches linking health, gender, environment, and energy. The study provides a strategic knowledge roadmap for researchers, policymakers, and funders to align research, financing, and implementation, advancing inclusive and sustainable clean cooking transitions by 2030.