A new eco-friendly approach for addressing water pollution and health challenges has been developed by researchers using zinc oxide (ZnO) and biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More derived from Pontederia crassipes L. leaves. This innovative ZnO/biochar nanohybrid demonstrates remarkable potential in dye removal, antibacterial activity, and anticancer applications.

The study focuses on a sustainable method to synthesize ZnO/biochar nanocomposites using green chemistry principles. The researchers utilized advanced techniques such as XRD, TEM, and FTIR to confirm the material’s structural and functional properties. The resulting nanohybrid exhibited high adsorption efficiencies of 99% for Methylene Blue and 98% for Coomassie Brilliant Blue dyes, making it a promising candidate for wastewater treatment. This efficiency addresses the growing issue of dye pollution caused by industrial activities, which harms aquatic life and human health.

Beyond environmental applications, ZnO/biochar also displayed significant biological properties. It demonstrated anticancer efficacy against MCF-7 breast cancer cells, with an IC50 of 79.82 μg/mL, indicating its potential as a cost-effective cancer treatment. Additionally, its antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus highlights its versatility in combating harmful bacteria.

This research underscores the promise of biochar-based nanocomposites as a multifunctional material for environmental remediation and medical applications. By repurposing plant waste into high-performance materials, this approach supports sustainability while addressing critical global challenges.