Cloud computing is a rapidly evolving field of communication and information technology, posing new environmental issues. Because cloud computing technologies are scalable, stable, and trustworthy, and provide great performance at a cheap cost, they have a wide range of application fields. The cloud computing revolution is reshaping modern networking and presenting both economic and technological benefits, as well as potential environmental protection prospects. These technologies have the potential to boost energy efficiency while also lowering carbon emissions and e-waste. These characteristics have the potential to turn cloud computing into green cloud computing. The main achievements of green cloud computing are reviewed in this survey. First, a brief introduction to cloud computing is provided. Following that, recent studies and advancements are discussed, with environmental issues being addressed especially. Finally, future research prospects for green cloud computing are discussed, as well as open issues.