Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many studies have appeared on how it will affect climate change and policy, and vice versa. In this study, we systematically review the literature about this relationship. We obtained a sample of 204 articles published in the period from February 2020 to March 2022. Using topic modelling and qualitative analysis, we identify seven main topics on the nexus of COVID-19 and climate change: (1) impacts of COVID-19 on climate change and policy; (2) sustainable recovery after COVID-19; (3) public concern about climate change and COVID-19; (4) lessons from COVID-19 for climate change action; (5) effects of COVID-19 and climate change on the economy, food security and poverty; (6) collective responses to crises and (7) similarities and differences between COVID-19 and climate change. We discuss lessons derived from each of these topics and identify key policies and strategies for a sustainable recovery from COVID-19. Investments in low-carbon technologies and carbon taxation are the most commonly suggested policy solutions. If climate targets are to be met, climate action needs to be the focus of COVID-19 recovery.