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This comprehensive review examines various methods of treating medical waste in the context of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). A bibliometric analysis was conducted to investigate the impact of COVID‐19 on medical waste, which showed a notable increase in publications in recent years. Findings indicate that thermal treatment with energy recovery, including pyrolysis, gasification, oxidation, and plasma gasification, is the most effective approach for managing medical waste. However, research on the impacts of medical waste on SDGs is insufficient, warranting further investigations to better understand the intersections between medical waste management and the SDGs. The need for international cooperation and collaboration in addressing medical waste management challenges, especially during crises, is highlighted. Understanding the links between medical waste management and the SDGs is crucial in developing sustainable solutions aligned with the global sustainability agenda. Further research and international collaboration are needed to address the challenges associated with medical waste management and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]