A Systematic Study of AI-Powered Robotics for Ocean Cleanup of Plastics

Year : 2025 | Volume : 12 | Issue : 02 | Page : 1 10
    By

    Atti Manga Devi,

  • Yamuna Mundru,

  • Manas Kumar Yogi,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Information Technology, Pragati Engineering College (A), Surampalem, Andhra Pradesh, India
  2. Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering-Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (CSE-AI&ML), Pragati Engineering College (A), Surampalem, Andhra Pradesh, India
  3. Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Pragati Engineering College (A), Surampalem, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

The escalating crisis of plastic pollution in marine ecosystems demands innovative solutions beyond conventional cleanup methods. This paper presents a systematic study of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered robotics for ocean plastic cleanup, evaluating their efficiency, technological advancements, and challenges. Autonomous systems, such as AI-driven surface drones (ASVs), underwater robots (autonomous underwater vehicles/remotely operated vehicles [AUVs/ROVs]), and swarm robotics, leverage machine learning (ML) and computer vision to detect, classify, and collect plastic waste with high precision. We analyze existing technologies, including sensor-based waste identification and robotic collection mechanisms, while identifying gaps in scalability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Our methodology combines a systematic literature review with case studies of deployed systems, assessing performance metrics like collection rates, false detection rates, and operational durability. Key findings highlight the potential of deep learning models in improving plastic recognition in dynamic ocean environments. However, challenges such as real-time decision-making, bio-fouling resistance, and environmental impact remain critical barriers. The study also explores future directions, including self-adaptive AI algorithms, internet of things (IoT)-integrated monitoring, and global policy frameworks to support large-scale robotic cleanup initiatives. By bridging technological and ecological perspectives, this research underscores the transformative potential of AI-powered robotics in restoring marine ecosystems, while calling for interdisciplinary collaboration to overcome existing limitations.

Keywords: Ocean cleanup, environmental robotics, sustainable waste management, sensor fusion, marine debris, plastic waste.

[This article belongs to Journal of Advancements in Robotics ]

How to cite this article:
Atti Manga Devi, Yamuna Mundru, Manas Kumar Yogi. A Systematic Study of AI-Powered Robotics for Ocean Cleanup of Plastics. Journal of Advancements in Robotics. 2025; 12(02):1-10.
How to cite this URL:
Atti Manga Devi, Yamuna Mundru, Manas Kumar Yogi. A Systematic Study of AI-Powered Robotics for Ocean Cleanup of Plastics. Journal of Advancements in Robotics. 2025; 12(02):1-10. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/joarb/article=2025/view=210335


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 12
Issue 02
Received 14/04/2025
Accepted 19/04/2025
Published 17/05/2025
Publication Time 33 Days
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