How are Industry 4.0 technologies transforming a sustainable society across industries?

Wei Zhao, Hao Chen and Aldis Bulis

Digital Transformation and Society, 2025, vol. 4, issue 3, 363-380

Abstract: PurposeThis paper explores the contribution of Industry 4.0 technologies—including artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things and blockchain—to sustainability across sectors such as energy, manufacturing, agriculture, urban development and healthcare. It assesses how these technologies enhance resource efficiency, minimize waste and optimize operational performance.Design/methodology/approachThis study combines a review of scholarly literature with sector-specific case studies to investigate how Industry 4.0 technologies support sustainable practices. It identifies practical applications and examines key challenges, including implementation costs, regulatory constraints and concerns over data privacy. The paper concludes with policy recommendations and suggestions for future research.FindingsIndustry 4.0 technologies play a significant role in advancing sustainability. In the energy sector, smart grids and blockchain support renewable energy integration and enable decentralized transactions. In manufacturing, these technologies improve production efficiency, reduce waste and lower energy consumption. Precision agriculture enhances input efficiency and increases crop yields. However, challenges such as high implementation costs and resistance to change remain. Overcoming these obstacles requires joint efforts from both the public and private sectors, along with enabling policy frameworks.Research limitations/implicationsThis review uniquely combines insights across multiple sectors, offering a cohesive view of how Industry 4.0 technologies can drive sustainable development. It also highlights challenges and provides a roadmap for stakeholders to integrate these technologies effectively for both environmental and economic benefits.Practical implicationsThe findings offer practical guidance for organizations and policymakers in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies that align with sustainability objectives. They also provide strategies to overcome adoption barriers and promote a digital transformation that fosters environmental sustainability and social equity.Originality/valueThis review offers an integrated perspective by synthesizing insights from multiple sectors, presenting a comprehensive view of how Industry 4.0 technologies contribute to sustainable development. It also identifies key challenges and outlines a strategic roadmap for stakeholders to effectively adopt these technologies for both environmental and economic gains.

Keywords: Digital transformation; Sustainability; AI; Blockchain; Internet of Things; Industry 4.0 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:dtspps:dts-11-2024-0225

DOI: 10.1108/DTS-11-2024-0225

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