<p>Plant-based mechanisms to remove and remediate toxic metals from contaminated soils have gained wide social acceptance which ensures the well-being of human and healthy environment. Phytomining is such green technology that uses the bioavailability of metals in the contaminated soils to remove the toxicity and gain the commercial interest of metals using hyperaccumulators. Due to the skyrocketing demand for nickel in clean energy transition and the depletion of high-grade deposits, nickel phytomining has been studied over the last few decades with successful field demonstrations in serpentine soil. In Sri Lanka, there are six nickel-enriched serpentinite deposits where little effort has been made to recover nickel from the soil. Moreover, the nickel toxicity has affected the local community and reduced the economic value of the lands. Thus, this paper assess the findings of global nickel phytomining studies in terms of influencing factors on phytomining, extraction methodologies, and the economical, social, and environmental benefits of nickel phytomining which help to explore the potential of implementing such method in Sri Lankan serpentinite deposits. Moreover, the findings of the recent phytomining studies with Ginigalpelessa serpentine soil have been evaluated to emphasize its potential in removing and recovering nickel from serpentine soil at local scale. By addressing technological challenges, extraction mechanics, and adhering to sustainability goals such as United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and Environmental, Social and Governance principles, this approach advocates for ethical and sustainable practices in serpentinite lands globally and locally, emphasizing responsible resource extraction for future demand.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>