Environmental management in the era of digitalization: Opportunities and challenges for green technologies

¹ Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
² St. Peterburg State Forest Technical University named after S.M. Kirov, St. Peterburg, Russia
³ Kadyrov Chechen State University, Grozny, Russia

^* Corresponding author: guzueva@mail.ru

Abstract

In the era of digitalization, environmental management stands at a crossroads, poised to benefit profoundly from the integration of green technologies. This research explores the transformative potential of digital tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain in enhancing sustainability practices. By leveraging AI for predictive analytics, utilizing IoT for real-time environmental monitoring, and employing blockchain for supply chain transparency, significant opportunities arise for optimizing resource use and reducing ecological footprints. However, challenges including the digital divide, high initial costs, data privacy concerns, and the energy consumption of digital technologies themselves pose substantial barriers. Through a mixed- methods approach, this study identifies strategies to address these challenges, emphasizing the need for robust regulatory frameworks and global collaboration. The findings underscore the critical balance between harnessing technological advancements and mitigating their environmental impacts, offering a roadmap for integrating digitalization into sustainable environmental management.