Evolving from an ethical consideration to a strategic imperative, green innovation (GI) compels businesses to continually enhance their processes to achieve sustainable growth. Based on bibliometric analysis of 594 Web of Science (WOS)-sourced articles from 2000 to 2023 using VOSviewer-1.6.20 and Bibliometrix-4.3.0, this study sheds light on the existing trends of green innovation, its contributors, and potential future directions in today’s business landscape. Our findings unveil significant insights from GI literature; an upward growth trajectory in publications; limited collaboration among researchers and institutions (notable collaborative networks among countries include China, Spain, and the United Kingdom); and trending GI terms and themes include green intellectual capital, GI efficiency, green product innovation, green absorptive capacity, green knowledge acquisition, big data, etc. These insights serve as a comprehensive guide for practitioners and scholars navigating the study of GI within the business and management sphere.

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the nexus among I4.0 Technologies (I4.0 Ts), knowledge management activities (KMA) and the manufacturing industry’s performance (MIP). Design/methodology/approach: We utilized survey data from 268 respondents across various manufacturing industries and authorities in Ethiopia. The study used Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) as the analytical tool to evaluate the constructs and their relationships. Findings: The results indicate that I4.0Ts have a positive impact on MIP. Specifically, elements of I4.0T, such as autonomous robotics (AR), additive manufacturing (AM) and the Internet of Things (IoT), show notable correlations with MIP. However, big data analytics (BDA) did not significantly impact MIP statistically. KMA is identified as a significant mediator between I4.0 T and MIP, stressing its role in improving the effectiveness of I4.0T implementation. Originality/value: Based on the RBV framework, this research enriches the literature on I4.0 T, KMA and MIP by exploring their effects and connections. Concurrently, it proffers practical suggestions for industry managers, policymakers and stakeholders, facilitating the cultivation of KMA and the strategic utilization of I4.0 T to enhance manufacturing performance.