Abstract: This study reviewed the theoretical and empirical research on the Athletic Talent Development Environment (ATDE), and highlighted the significance of environmental factors in the growth of athletes. Based on holistic ecological approach (HEA) and subsequent theoretical and empirical research advancements, this study analyzed the structure and processes of ATDE, as well as the effective and ineffective characteristics of environmental factors. The preliminary conceptual framework of functional and dysfunctional TDE elements further reveals the dual impacts of environmental factors on athletes’ development. It is found that the successful ATDEs includes supportive training teams, clear organizational cultures, and the ability to integrate efforts from various parties, while ineffective environments lack these features. Current empirical studies mainly focus on the analysis of specific athlete’s development environment, and discuss the influence of ATDE on athletic performance and personal development from multiple perspectives, including athletes and coaches. Future researches should pay more attention on cross-cultural studies, long-term tracking studies, comprehensive assessment of environmental factors, and the depth and breadth of empirical research.