Recycling in China-Africa International Legal Frameworks and the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Interpretation and Enforcement
Keywords:
AI , Challenges , Africa , Recycling, Treaties , Belt and Road, China – Africa cooperationAbstract
This article examines the regulation and management of recyclable materials-particularly hazardous and electronic waste-within international and bilateral frameworks involving China and African states. The article argues that artificial intelligence (AI) can strengthen the monitoring and enforcement of waste management treaties. Tools such as satellite imagery, machine learning for risk analysis, and natural language processing for legal interpretation can detect non-compliance, predict high-risk movements, and clarify treaty obligations. However, the integration of AI must respect state sovereignty, due process, and equitable participation to prevent new ethical or legal imbalances. Finally, the article recommends that treaty drafters include clauses for AI-assisted monitoring, that implementing agencies adopt technological tools for data-driven oversight, and that civil society use AI insights to enhance accountability.
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