This review explores the latest advances in the field of environmentally friendly silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), focusing on their photocatalytic and antibacterial capabilities. The popularity of AgNPs from their unique characteristics, which are influenced by their synthesis method. Green synthesis offers a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical methods, using natural reducers like plant extracts, fungi and bacteria. Recent research has shown the significant antibacterial effectiveness of green-synthesised AgNPs in combating pathogenic bacteria. The review explores various mechanisms for this antibacterial action, such as how reactive oxygen species work, how Ag ions are released and how bacterial DNA is disrupted. Green-synthesised AgNPs also show promising prospects in photocatalysis, particularly in the degradation of organic pollutants and inactivation of microorganisms when exposed to light. The review emphasises the need for additional investigations to analyse interaction mechanisms and develop environmentally sustainable synthesis techniques, which could facilitate the implementation of AgNPs in healthcare and environmental remediation.