Work

Artificial Intelligence Applications for Cleaner Production and Sustainable Development in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Review and Future Research Directions

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) has reshaped various aspects of human lives, particularly through its capabilities to address complex sustainability challenges. Despite the rapid expansion of AI applications, their contribution to cleaner production and sustainable development remains underexplored, especially in developing nations. In Southeast Asia (SEA), where AI adoption has grown substantially across environmental, economic, and social dimensions, research that examines its role in cleaner production outcomes remains fragmented. In view of this gap, this study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) of AI applications related to cleaner production and sustainable development by examining relevant themes, application areas, and sustainability dimensions addressed by AI, while evaluating the maturity of AI methodologies, alignment with cleaner production outcomes, and integration with circular economy and resource efficiency goals. Moreover, it investigates the barriers and challenges that constrain AI application and offers future research directions to advance AI deployment for cleaner production and sustainable development across SEA countries.

Source: Technologies

DOI: 10.3390/technologies14030182

Authors: Victor James C. Escolano, Yann-Mey Yee, Alexander A. Hernandez, Charmine Sheena R. Saflor, Do Van Nang, Ace C. Lagman

Institutions: Chung Yuan Christian University, FEU Institute of Technology, De La Salle University, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City

Language: English

Topic: Impact of AI and Big Data on Business and Society

Subfield: Management Science and Operations Research

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,930