The impact of eco-innovation on companies’ financial performance: an analysis of key contributions and trends in the literature

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to present a bibliometric analysis combined with a systematic review of the empirical literature to verify whether the relationship between the impact of eco-innovation and the financial performance of companies is corroborated.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses bibliometric analysis and systematic review methods on 122 articles from Web of Science, Scopus and Science Direct, combining quantitative frequency and co-citation analysis with a qualitative exploration of themes in eco-innovation research.

Findings

In their research on eco-innovation, the authors found that there is a need to better understand the impact of eco-innovation on companies’ financial performance in the knowledge gaps.

Research limitations/implications

Research on eco-innovation identifies knowledge gaps and directions for future studies exploring environmental strategies to boost corporate commitment to sustainability.

Originality/value

This study finds that eco-innovation is decisive for enhancing operational performance and understanding its effect on companies’ financial outcomes, offering perspectives on how environmental practices influence organizational finance.

Citation

Lopes, J.L. and Basso, L.F.C. (2025), "The impact of eco-innovation on companies’ financial performance: an analysis of key contributions and trends in the literature", Review of Accounting and Finance, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 102-128. https://doi.org/10.1108/RAF-07-2023-0217