Based on the related literature on green development from 2011 to 2021, which includes 2062 papers from Web of Science and 2385 papers from the core databases of CNKI, the knowledge maps were constructed via CiteSpace. These maps were used to analyze the structural characteristics, hot frontiers, evolution trends and theme changes of the researches on green development. The results are as follows:1. The number of Chinese and English literature publications on green development has generally increased exponentially, but there is a lack of cooperation and exchanges between core authors, Chinese and foreign authors, institutions and universities, and Chinese and foreign institutions. 2. The research frontiers of Chinese and English literature include the measurement of ecological environment, carbon emission, green economy, and green development level. In addition, Chinese literature focuses more on rural revitalization and green finance, while English literature focuses more on renewable energy and technology. 3. In terms of research timing and thematic changes, the domestic literature research is closely related to China's major policies, showing a phased and systematic development trend. The English literature is divided into two stages, and the development trend is relatively vague. Based on the research results, it is necessary to strengthen the cooperation between Chinese and foreign scholars, emphasize qualitative research, deepen the integration between disciplines and industries, and combine green development with the dual-carbon goal in the future research.