Lrovincial panel data from 2011 to 2021 were leveraged in this study to examine the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of digitalization in promoting the coordinated development of mineral resources and ecological conservation from the perspective of regional development disparities. It was indicated by the findings that, overall, a moderate upward trajectory had been shown in the level of coordinated development of mineral resources and the environment in China. However, significant geographical heterogeneity persisted, with the southeastern coastal regions being outperformed by the central and western areas. This coordinated development was significantly promoted by digitalization, a conclusion that was remained robust even after addressing endogeneity and conducting sensitivity analyses. Furthermore, industrial structure upgrading and improvements in green innovation capabilities were identified as key mediating factors through which coordinated development was facilitated by digitalization. It was also revealed by this study that the impact of digitalization varied across different regions, with China’s southeastern regions being benefited more substantially. Based on this analysis, several recommendations were proposed, including investments in digital infrastructure and technologies being enhanced; the pivotal role of digitalization being reinforced; the green transformation of the industrial structure being advanced; and targeted regional development strategies being developed.