Global crises caused by the pandemic of COVID-19, since early 2020, can compromise the world commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This study discusses critical aspects of the global pandemic for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More precisely, we analyze how the new circumstances created by the pandemic have affected the interdependencies between SDGs. Following a synopsis of the current literature, we focus on effects regarding SDG3 (Health & Well-Being), SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth), SDG12 (Consumption & Production) and SDG13 (Climate Action). Following a qualitative research approach, we based our analysis on moderated focus group discussions (FGD). Our observations reveal a unique pattern of interconnectedness between SDGs that can be related to COVID-19 consequences. Qualitative interpretations of focus group discussions also depict, that additional spillover effects can be obstacles for achieving SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 9 (Infrastructure & Innovation) and SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities), SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals), SDG 11 (sustainable cities). Therefore, we consider the interdependent implications and recent trends in international development related to sustainability as a useful framework in the post-pandemic recovery period.

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is a concept that evolves in line with emerging sustainability issues. In the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ESD is embraced in Goal 4, Target 4.7, and reflected in other Goals and Targets. The approach towards the 2030 Agenda is important, not only because of the crucial role that education will play in the implementation of the Goals, but also in increasing its impact by orienting towards the emerging sustainability challenges. Therefore, there is a high demand for research to better understand ESD interactions with the 2030 Agenda framework in specific contexts. This study addresses the implications of Target 4.7 on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, in the context of the Regional Centres of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development as global multi-stakeholder networks. It analyses the interaction of Target 4.7 with other Goals and Targets, in order to identify the strongest connections amongst thematic sustainability issues. The findings revealed through statistical analyses and a comprehensive literature review, that the prevailing components of ESD are strongly interconnected with Goals 2, 3, 4, 7, 11, 12, 13, 15. Thus reinforcing that the multidimensional aspects of ESD in relation to the SDGs are stronger regarding the current complex issues such as, education, climate, energy, sustainable cities, natural habitat, consumption and production. Although the nature of multi-stakeholder networks allows for diverse approaches of ESD towards the 2030 Agenda, the study indicates the importance of partnership and informal learning for reflection of global sustainability issues in regional platforms.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were conceived at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, held in Rio de Janeiro in 2012 (Rio + 20), and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. They are part of a larger framework, namely the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Since then, many countries round the world have been engaging in respect of their implementation. The slow progress seen in the implementation of the SDGs, is in contrast with the many negative implications of not implementing them. This paper outlines the relevance of the SDGs, the barriers currently seen in respect of their implementation and outlines what is at stake, if they are not duly implemented. To accomplish this, a thorough literature review of contributions published in the field of SDGs in English between the years 2012–2020 was performed.

The crisis caused by COVID-19 has affected research in a variety of ways. As far as research on sustainable development is concerned, the lockdown has significantly disrupted the usual communication channels and, among other things, has led to the cancellation of meetings and long-planned events. It has also led to delay in the delivery of research projects. There is a gap in the literature in regards to how a global crisis influences sustainability research. Therefore, this ground-breaking paper undertakes an analysis of the extent to which COVID-19 as a whole, and the lockdown in particular, has influenced sustainability research, and it outlines the solutions pursued by researchers around the world to overcome the many challenges they have experienced. This paper also outlines some measures that may be implemented in the future to take more advantage of existing technologies that support research on sustainable development.

The concept of the circular economy (CE) is gaining attention in developing countries as they cope with global challenges such as resource depletion, climate change, and environmental degradation. However, the adoption of CE principles at the business model level in these countries is constrained by various obstacles. This systematic literature review of 107 articles from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) examines study results on circular business models within developing economies to establish a comprehensive framework for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. We identify proof of obstacles such as financial constraints, regulatory and institutional challenges, technological limitations, market and supply chain issues, organizational hurdles, and cultural resistance. Among successful practices, drivers, and enablers that facilitate transition from linear to circular are highlighted: policy support, innovation, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building. A research gap is identified, especially in the health sector, food supply chains, and plastic packaging manufacturers. Due to the differences in terms of methodology, context, and topic of the reviewed research, the findings cannot be generalized. Nevertheless, by synthesizing current knowledge, our study aims to offer valuable insights to guide businesses in adopting circular models and policymakers in creating supportive environments, contributing to sustainable development in emerging economies.