<p>This study examines the relationship between digital technology application and corporate environmental performance, with a focus on the moderating roles of chief executive officer duality and state ownership. Based on data from Chinese listed firms from 2011 to 2021, the analysis employs a series of empirical tests to explore these dynamics. The results show that digital technology application is positively and robustly associated with corporate environmental performance. However, when chief executive officers hold dual roles, the positive association between digital technology application and environmental performance becomes weaker. In contrast, state ownership strengthens this relationship. Further analysis distinguishes between the breadth and depth of digital technology application, revealing that both dimensions are positively linked to environmental performance. Heterogeneity analysis further shows that the positive relationship between digital technology application and corporate environmental performance is more pronounced in high-pollution industries and high-tech industries than in their respective counterparts. By clarifying the governance factors and industry contexts that shape the digital technology–environmental performance relationship, this study extends the literature on digital technology application and corporate environmental sustainability. It also offers practical implications for improving governance systems so that firms can better leverage the potential environmental benefits associated with digital technologies.</p>