Technological innovation and environmental sustainability: an analysis of digital transformation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

The objective of this study was to analyze the contribution of technological innovation and digital transformation to environmental sustainability and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a review of scientific literature. A qualitative documentary approach was employed based on the analysis of seventeen review studies indexed in high-impact academic databases. The methodology enabled the identification of the main digital technologies applied to sustainability, the sectors with the highest level of implementation, the environmental benefits generated, and the challenges associated with their adoption. The results showed that artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, big data, cloud computing, and blockchain were the most relevant tools for optimizing resource use, improving energy efficiency, strengthening environmental management, and promoting sustainable production and consumption models. Furthermore, a significant contribution of digital transformation was observed in areas related to climate action, sustainable cities, industrial innovation, and the circular economy. However, limitations associated with digital divides, implementation costs, the energy consumption of technological infrastructures, and the generation of electronic waste were also identified. It was concluded that digital transformation represented a strategic instrument for promoting environmental sustainability; however, its effectiveness depended on appropriate public policies, responsible governance, and a balanced integration of technological innovation, economic development, and environmental protection.