What is so special about Cardano?

I'm curious, what is so unique about Cardano? I've heard quite a lot about this cryptocurrency but haven't quite grasped its standout features. Could you elaborate on its technological advancements? Also, how does its governance model differ from other blockchains? Is Cardano's emphasis on privacy and scalability really that groundbreaking? I'm also interested in its potential applications beyond just being a digital currency. Could you give me some examples of real-world use cases that highlight its versatility? Lastly, how does Cardano's sustainability efforts align with the broader cryptocurrency industry? I'm keen to understand its role in promoting environmental responsibility.