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An Overview of Digital Transformation and Environmental Sustainability: Threats, Opportunities, and Solutions

Author

Listed:
  • Apurva Goel

    (Krishna Institute of Allied Sciences, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad 415539, Maharashtra, India)

  • Snehal Masurkar

    (Krishna Institute of Allied Sciences, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad 415539, Maharashtra, India)

  • Girish R. Pathade

    (Krishna Institute of Allied Sciences, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad 415539, Maharashtra, India)

Abstract

Digital transformation, powered by technologies like AI, IoT, and big data, is reshaping industries and societies at an unprecedented pace. While these innovations promise smarter energy management, precision agriculture, and efficient resource utilization, they also introduce serious environmental challenges. This paper examines the dual impact of digital technologies, highlighting key threats such as rising energy consumption, growing e-waste, and the increased extraction of raw materials. By synthesizing the existing literature, this study highlights mitigation strategies that include adopting energy-efficient practices, integrating renewable energy, and implementing circular economy principles. It emphasizes the need for a balanced approach—making the most of technological advances while protecting the environment. By identifying gaps in the current research, this paper also suggests future areas to explore to ensure that digital progress does not come at the expense of our planet. This review advocates for an integrated strategy to achieve sustainable digital growth aligned with global climate goals.

Suggested Citation

  • Apurva Goel & Snehal Masurkar & Girish R. Pathade, 2024. "An Overview of Digital Transformation and Environmental Sustainability: Threats, Opportunities, and Solutions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-36, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:24:p:11079-:d:1546082
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Radoslaw Wisniewski & Tomasz Kownacki & Aneta Nowakowska-Krystman & Anna Wierzchowska & Piotr Daniluk & Krzysztof Puwalski, 2025. "The Attitudes of Generation Z Women to Sustainable Development—Aspects of SPET," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-35, August.
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    4. Morgan Alamandi, 2025. "Sustainable Innovation Management: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Responsibility," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-31, May.
    5. Qian Wu & Manuel Arana‐Jiménez & Alicia Martín‐Navarro & María Paula Lechuga Sancho, 2026. "Exploring Green Software for Management: Tourism as an Emerging Research Field," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(S2), pages 695-713, March.
    6. Maria Siddique & Numair Ahmed Sulehri, 2026. "Digital transformation and responsible production-consumption: the mediating roles of green innovation and organizational learning, and the moderating effect of leadership agility in Pakistan’s textile industry," Future Business Journal, Springer, vol. 12(1), pages 1-16, December.
    7. Ana-Maria Severin & Anamaria-Catalina Radu & Ivona Rapan, 2026. "Urban ecological and digital transitions - concepts, challenges and policy perspectives," Romanian Journal of Economics, Institute of National Economy, vol. 62(1(71)), pages 157-165, June.

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