<p>This review critically examines recent advancements in antifouling technologies, emphasizing the development of environmentally sustainable coatings to mitigate biofouling in marine environments. Biofouling, the accumulation of aquatic organisms on submerged surfaces, presents significant economic and ecological challenges, including increased fuel consumption, structural degradation, and the spread of invasive species. The phase-out of toxic organotin-based antifouling paints, particularly tributyltin (TBT)-based formulations, has driven the search for safer and more effective alternatives. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the historical evolution of antifouling coatings, the impact of biofouling across various industries such as heat exchangers, jetties, offshore rigs, shipping vessels, and aquaculture cages, and the limitations of existing antifouling coatings. It highlights the role of interdisciplinary research in advancing antifouling strategies and explores emerging materials such as conducting polymers, hydrogel coatings, and bio-based formulations for antifouling and anticorrosion applications. The review underscores the potential of these innovative materials while emphasizing the need for further research to enhance their long-term effectiveness and environmental compatibility. Additionally, the current review paper covers various antifouling strategies, including biocide-based coatings, fouling-release coatings, and nonfouling coatings, which have been developed to prevent marine growth. The transition from traditional copper-based coatings to sustainable alternatives, such as silicone-based fouling-release coatings and biomimetic materials, reflects the growing regulatory and environmental concerns surrounding conventional antifouling technologies. Advancements in biomimetic, enzyme-based, and nontoxic polymer coatings are further explored, demonstrating their potential to provide durable, eco-friendly antifouling coatings. To illustrate the practical implications of biofouling and mitigation strategies, the discussion highlights the economic and operational challenges posed by biofouling and evaluates the effectiveness of antifouling interventions. The review concludes with key findings, industry implications, and future research directions, advocating for continued innovation in sustainable and efficient antifouling technologies to address the evolving demands of the maritime and naval industries.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>