AI-Based Recyclable and Non-Recyclable Material Detection System Using Convolutional Neural Networks

Waste management has become a significant global challenge due to rapid urbanization and increased consumption.Improper waste segregation leads to reduced recycling efficiency and environmental pollution.Identifying recyclable and non-recyclable materials manually is time-consuming and prone to human error.This paper proposes an AI-based recyclable material detection system that uses image classification techniques to automatically identify waste materials.The system allows users to upload images or capture images via camera through a web application interface.A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model is trained on a waste classification dataset to recognise different types of waste -including recyclable, nonrecyclable, organic, and e-waste.The trained model is integrated with a Flask-based web application that processes input images and returns prediction results along with a confidence score.The system aims to assist users in proper waste segregation and promote environmentally responsible behaviour through an accessible, AI-powered tool.