The recent developments in the field of information and communication technology (ICT) and human-computer interaction (HCI) are significantly advancing towards sustainability and user autonomy. There is a notable shift towards integrating environmental considerations into ICT strategies, with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and optimizing resource use. This includes innovative frameworks for sustainable cloud platform management that balance service-level objectives with environmental impacts. Additionally, the use of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) is being explored not just for social interaction but also as tools for critical discourse on media freedom and perception of reality. The field is also witnessing a deeper exploration of user motivation and autonomy in technology use, challenging traditional notions of intrinsic motivation and offering insights into designing for healthier engagement patterns. These advancements collectively push the boundaries of both technological innovation and ethical considerations in ICT and HCI.