This bibliometric study analyzes 1433 reviews on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustainability, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolving research landscape. The study observes a significant annual growth rate of 74% in publications and a remarkable 171% increase in total citations from 2016 to 2022, reflecting growing interest in this area. SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production) is the most extensively studied, with influential journals like *Sustainability* and the *Journal of Cleaner Production* featuring prominently. SDGs 12 and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) stand out across various research fields, while SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 15 (Life on Land) show significance in specific domains. Thematic analysis reveals key topics such as environmental protection, circular economy, life cycle assessment, and supply chain management, with strong connections to SDG 12. Network analysis highlights the critical roles of SDGs 12 and 9 (Industry Innovation and Infrastructure) in achieving a sustainable future. However, alternative social network indicators suggest the potential influence of SDGs 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) on other goals. Intriguingly, mainstream SDG research predominantly focuses on SDGs 3 and 7, presenting challenges due to the volume and complexity of related publications. While SDG 7 could find suitable outlets in leading journals, addressing SDG 3’s complexity remains a formidable task. The study recommends conducting bibliometric studies on SDGs 3, 7, and 13 (Climate Action) to address these challenges and provide valuable insights for researchers and policymakers.This bibliometric study analyzes 1433 reviews on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustainability, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolving research landscape. The study observes a significant annual growth rate of 74% in publications and a remarkable 171% increase in total citations from 2016 to 2022, reflecting growing interest in this area. SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production) is the most extensively studied, with influential journals like *Sustainability* and the *Journal of Cleaner Production* featuring prominently. SDGs 12 and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) stand out across various research fields, while SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 15 (Life on Land) show significance in specific domains. Thematic analysis reveals key topics such as environmental protection, circular economy, life cycle assessment, and supply chain management, with strong connections to SDG 12. Network analysis highlights the critical roles of SDGs 12 and 9 (Industry Innovation and Infrastructure) in achieving a sustainable future. However, alternative social network indicators suggest the potential influence of SDGs 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) on other goals. Intriguingly, mainstream SDG research predominantly focuses on SDGs 3 and 7, presenting challenges due to the volume and complexity of related publications. While SDG 7 could find suitable outlets in leading journals, addressing SDG 3’s complexity remains a formidable task. The study recommends conducting bibliometric studies on SDGs 3, 7, and 13 (Climate Action) to address these challenges and provide valuable insights for researchers and policymakers.