<p>Water pollution remains a pressing global issue, especially due to the increasing prevalence of emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, micro/nanoplastics, and endocrine-disrupting compounds. These pollutants pose significant risks to ecosystems and human health due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and resistance to conventional treatment methods. This review critically examines both traditional and advanced water remediation technologies, including adsorption, electrochemical and Fenton-based oxidation, membrane filtration, bioremediation, phytoremediation, and the use of nanomaterials. Particular attention is given to innovative approaches, such as the integration of microorganisms with nanomaterials and plant–microbe consortia, which offer enhanced degradation pathways for recalcitrant contaminants. A comparative analysis highlights the advantages, limitations, and sustainability aspects of each method, providing insights into their practical application. By addressing recent trends and future perspectives, this work contributes to the development of more effective and eco-friendly strategies for mitigating the growing challenge of emerging pollutants in water systems.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>