Industry 4.0 and the Environment: A Review of Ecological Implications and Integrated Mitigation Strategies

This article examines the relationship between Industry 4.0 transformation and environmental sustainability. The research aims to assess the ecological opportunities and risks of industrial digitalization, while formulating integrated mitigation strategies for companies and policymakers. Using a qualitative literature review method on 55 scientific articles since 2020, this study finds that technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, big data, and digital twins can enhance energy efficiency, raw materials, environmental monitoring, and the circular economy. However, these benefits are not automatic as digitalization also increases electricity consumption, critical mineral needs, electronic waste, and the risk of rebound effect. This article emphasizes the importance of phased strategies through efficiency, circularity, decarbonization, data governance, verification, and support for small businesses to ensure that digital transformation truly supports the green transition.