This Special Issue examines the often-overlooked societal, ethical, and environmental consequences of Industry 4.0 and critically assesses whether Industry 5.0 can offer more human-centred and sustainable pathways. While digital technologies promise efficiency and innovation, they also generate systemic risks related to resource use, governance, well-being, trust, and equity. Bringing together conceptual, empirical, and policy-oriented contributions, the Special Issue advances integrative perspectives on responsible digital transformation across industry and society. By bridging fragmented debates and highlighting emerging blind spots, it provides timely insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to shape more ethical, resilient, and socially grounded technological futures.