<p>The presence of high levels of heavy metals in the environment is a significant environmental issue that endangers both the environment and&#xa0;human health. The problem is mostly caused by water contamination from toxic heavy metals, which can have detrimental effects such as ecosystem destruction, disease transmission, and contamination of drinking water. Biochar shows great potential as an environmentally friendly adsorbent for the removal of toxic metals from wastewater. It is obtained from a range of biomasses, such as organic wastes and&#xa0;agricultural residues, and possesses a significant amount of&#xa0;carbon level, stability, and&#xa0;surface area. Biochar possesses features that allow it to efficiently eliminate toxic metals using&#xa0;adsorption and&#xa0;cation exchange. This article provides a concise overview of the latest developments in the modification of wood and non-woody biomass-derived&#xa0;biochar with multi-and mono metals and organic substances&#xa0;to improve its ability to adsorb toxic metals. The article explores the benefits, uses, difficulties, and future possibilities of this approach. Biochar-naturalized advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have demonstrated potential in&#xa0;heavy metal complexes decomposition&#xa0;and increasing the ability to adsorb free metallic ions in industrial effluent/wastewater. Biochar is a reusable substance, which makes it more environmentally friendly compared to substitutes. The article also identifies areas where research is lacking and limitations of using mono-multi metal or organic agent-modified biochar&#xa0;derived from wood and non-wood biomass&#xa0;for water treatment of toxic metals. It also suggests potential areas for further research. Subsequent studies should prioritize the advancement of ecologically sustainable and economically efficient technologies to expand the use of biochar for removing heavy metals.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>