LEVERAGING HUMAN-ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND MACHINE LEARNING (ML): COLLABORATIVE APPROACH FOR ENHANCING WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN BANGLADESH TO ACHIEVE ZERO-WASTE

Abstract

Bangladesh struggles in managing the underdeveloped and poorly enforced waste management system, which has far-reaching consequences for the environment, public health, urban resilience, and long-term sustainability. In recent years, the transformation of waste management through AI and ML techniques into waste management enables innovative solutions for forecasting, classification and optimization, leading to more efficient, user-friendly, and cost-effective recycling systems which represents a significant step forward in enabling more efficient and zero-waste practices to reduce environmental challenges. This study aims to provide insights into the current waste management challenges and identify the effectiveness of the interventions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) with human collaboration by adapting strategies from developed countries in improving waste management processes and mitigating environmental pollution to achieve Zero-Waste goals by fostering more sustainable and efficient urban waste management practices. This study utilized a systematic literature review, analyzing peer-reviewed articles, previous research, case study and different strategies from developed countries to better identify best practices and technological approach and investigate how the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning can be applied in the waste management system of Bangladesh. The rate of waste generation in Bangladesh is increasing. According to Bangladesh Waste Database 2021, per capita waste is projected to rise from 0.52 kg/day to 0.74 kg/day by 2041 and pushing national waste to nearly 51.2 million tons. According to the "Food Waste Index Report 2024", 14.10 million tons of food is wasted every year by households in Bangladesh. Human and AI collaboration and machine learning combined with policy integration, community participation, and the adoption of strategies from developed countries along with inclusive solutions may provide a scalable pathway for Bangladesh to reduce waste, enhance recycling and achieve Zero-Waste goals in future.