Sustainable Development in the Digital Age: Harnessing Emerging Digital Technologies to Catalyze Global SDG Achievement

The digital revolution, characterized by rapid technological advancements, presents a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research explores the transformative potential of cutting-edge digital technologies—including artific...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Claudiu George Bocean
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-01-01
Series:Applied Sciences
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/2/816
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Summary:The digital revolution, characterized by rapid technological advancements, presents a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research explores the transformative potential of cutting-edge digital technologies—including artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things—in fostering sustainable development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Our study employs a rigorous empirical approach to quantify the impact of digital innovation on SDG achievement within the European Union. Utilizing the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) as a comprehensive measure of technological progress, we apply structural equation modeling to emphasize the complex interplay between digital advancement and sustainable development indicators. A key focus of our analysis is the mediating role of economic performance, measured by GDP per capita, in the relationship between digital technology adoption and SDG progress. This nuanced examination provides insights into how economic factors influence the effectiveness of digital solutions in addressing global challenges. Our findings underscore the need for adaptive policies that harness the power of digital technologies while addressing potential challenges and ensuring inclusive growth.
ISSN:2076-3417