Environmental applications of carbon dots: Addressing microplastics, air and water pollution

• Production and disposal of plastic waste have led to a surge in plastic pollution. • Release of hazardous pollutants from anthropogenic sources has worsen air quality. • Contamination of water bodies with hazardous substances poses a severe threat. • CDs have potential in microplastics detection, gas sensing, and remediation. • Future of CDs are seen on more tailorable properties for specific application. Carbon dots (CDs) have emerged as a promising class of nanomaterials for addressing critical environmental challenges. Their unique optical, chemical, and electronic properties enable various applications, including microplastic detection, gas sensing, and water remediation. By leveraging their fluorescence properties, CDs can sensitively detect microplastics in diverse environmental matrices. Additionally, their ability to interact with gas molecules makes them suitable for developing efficient gas sensors to monitor air pollutants. In water remediation, CDs can be utilized as adsorbents, photocatalysts, and electrochemical sensors to remove heavy metals, organic pollutants, and other contaminants. Despite significant advancements, several challenges persist. These include the need for scalable and environmentally friendly synthesis methods, improved selectivity and sensitivity, and long-term stability. Future research should focus on addressing these limitations and exploring innovative applications of CDs in environmental remediation. By harnessing the potential of CDs, we can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.