Problems of sustainable economies during the pandemic

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to answer the question: does the pandemic affect the ability to achieve the sustainable development goals? Design/methodology/approach: The article analyzes selected, available literature on sustainable development, from the genesis of the phenomenon to the current situation. It invoked, among other things, the idea of the European Green Deal. The most current issues related to the pandemic reality were addressed. The themes and changes highlighted are based on data from available reports and statistical analyses. Findings: By the time the pandemic broke out, the sustainability goals had been achieved gradually. But the pandemic has forced policymakers to think long-term. The conditions for transition to the green economy, i.e. the green transition, have also become crucial. In many countries, including Poland, the need for better achievement of social goals in addition to economic or environmental ones has become apparent. Further work is needed to achieve the sustainable development goals. Research limitations/implications: The text refers to a limited number of studies. The problems presented in the paper still need to be empirically confirmed in relation to a greater number of examples, which should result in the publication of subsequent studies. It will also be necessary to fully diagnose the post-pandemic situation and retrace the threads taken up. Originality/value: The article points to already visible changes, being the result of the continuing pandemic, from the perspective of sustainable development goals.