The Evolution of Environmental Diplomacy: Reviewing Four Decades of Research

The development of international environmental cooperation, the introduction of new tools for environmental protection, and the popularization of “ecological” behavior have all contributed to the emergence of environmental diplomacy. Despite its relevance in international relations, environmental diplomacy is characterized by diverse and fragmented literature. Amidst pressing global environmental issues, it is important to understand how environmental diplomacy is interpreted and adopted. Employing a systematic review of 744 scholarly articles, this paper synthesizes the main research themes and trends in the field of environmental diplomacy. The findings reveal significant shifts in the perception of environmental diplomacy, highlighting its effectiveness in multilateral agreements and its intricate links with peace and equality. Moreover, the study identifies major challenges, such as power imbalances and implementation issues, but also underscores the positive impact of environmental diplomacy on raising environmental awareness and fostering international cooperation. This research explores the evolution and impact of environmental diplomacy, enhancing our understanding of how international relations intersect with environmental management and offering insights for strengthening global environmental governance.