## 5 Discussion  
In an era of rapid technological advancement, the intersection of digital innovation and sustainable development presents unprecedented opportunities to address global challenges. In this study, we aim to analyze how digital technologies, evaluated through the DESI, influence the achievement of SDGs in EU countries by testing two hypotheses using SEM. The results obtained from running the 18 SEM models partially confirm the validity of Hypothesis H1, namely, that emerging technologies, measured by the DESI, have a significant positive impact on SDG progress in European Union countries. Statistically significant path coefficients support the partial validation of this hypothesis, indicating that countries with higher DESI scores tend to make more significant progress in achieving SDGs. However, there are some exceptions. The DESI negatively influences goals, such as SDG 2, SDG 12, and SDG 13, while the impact of the DESI on SDG 14 and SDG 15 is insignificant. For SDG 2, the rapid development of the digital economy may exacerbate inequalities in access to technology and resources between different regions and social groups. Farmers in rural and disadvantaged areas may face challenges in adopting new agricultural technologies and accessing digital markets, leading to inefficiencies in food production and increased food insecurity. Regarding SDG 12, the negative influence of the DESI stems from increased resource consumption and electronic waste generation. Responsible production and consumption require efficient resource management and a reduced ecological footprint; the rapid advancement of digital technologies may exacerbate overconsumption and inadequate waste management. SDG 13 experiences negative influences from the DESI, as the expansion of digital infrastructure and increased data usage require large amounts of energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. The insignificant influence of the DESI on SDG 14 and SDG 15 is due to the digital aspects measured by the DESI having a less direct connection to marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Although digital technology can play a role in environmental monitoring and protection, the positive or negative effects on these goals are less evident than those related to food production, responsible consumption, and climate action. These findings are consistent with the other findings, which underscores the importance of digitalization in achieving a sustainable future. Deloitte [13] argues that digitalization modernizes processes and interactions globally and creates a conducive framework for achieving SDGs by improving communication, monitoring, analysis, and human capacity development. Our study supports this perspective, highlighting the crucial role of digital technologies in building a sustainable future. Another essential aspect noted by [PERSON] et al. [75] is the increase in energy consumption and electronic waste generation, which can affect climate conditions and marine and terrestrial biodiversity. This issue underscores the need for a regulatory framework that promotes responsible and ethical practices, as suggested by [PERSON] et al. [14]. Countries with strict policies on digital sustainability and e-waste management can better balance the benefitsof digitalization with its environmental impacts. Furthermore, digital transformation can stimulate innovation in sustainability. [PERSON] et al. [76] emphasize that companies can develop new products and services that address ecological and social challenges by adopting advanced technologies. Countries that integrate sustainability into their digital transformation strategies contribute towards achieving SDGs and strengthening their long-term success. The partial confirmation of Hypothesis H1's validity underscores the importance of emerging digital technologies in achieving the SDGs. These technologies must be implemented strategically and responsibly to maximize the benefits and minimize the associated risks.