Advancing Sustainability: An Automated Framework for Managing Domestic Waste in Riyadh

Municipal solid waste (MSW) generation is escalating globally, with projections indicating a $70 \%$ rise to 3.4 billion tonnes annually by 2050, intensifying environmental and logistical strains. This paper synthesizes advancements in automated waste management and sustainable manufacturing, evaluating innovations such as AI-driven robotic sorting, IoT-enabled smart bins, blockchain-enabled traceability, and life cycle assessment (LCA)-guided strategies. The literature review, conducted across major databases, examined 376 articles, yielding 180 relevant works, thus identifying key trends. The data from practical implementations was obtained through case studies from cities that have begun integrating these technologies. While these technologies enhance operational efficiency and resource recovery, critical gaps persist in integrating research breakthroughs into municipal practices. To bridge this gap, we propose a four-phase framework tailored for Riyadh, which integrates smart collection infrastructure with route optimization algorithms, AI-powered material recovery facilities (MRFs), and blockchain-based transparency. Challenges such as high upfront costs and public engagement are addressed via phased implementation and publicprivate partnerships. The study underscores that automation, underpinned by life cycle thinking and stakeholder collaboration, is pivotal for scalable, sustainable waste management in rapidly growing cities.