Smart waste management: A paradigm shift enabled by artificial intelligence

Abstract

Waste management poses a pressing global challenge, necessitating innovative solutions for resource optimization and sustainability. Traditional practices often prove insufficient in addressing the escalating volume of waste and its environmental impact. However, the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies offers promising avenues for tackling the complexities of waste management systems. This review provides a comprehensive examination of AI’s role in waste management, encompassing collection, sorting, recycling, and monitoring. It delineates the potential benefits and challenges associated with each application while emphasizing the imperative for improved data quality, privacy measures, cost-effectiveness, and ethical considerations. Furthermore, future prospects for AI integration with the Internet of Things (IoT), advancements in machine learning, and the importance of collaborative frameworks and policy initiatives were discussed. In conclusion, while AI holds significant promise for enhancing waste management practices, addressing challenges such as data quality, privacy concerns, and cost implications is paramount. Through concerted efforts and ongoing research endeavors, the transformative potential of AI can be fully harnessed to drive sustainable and efficient waste management practices.