The article reviews the recent advancements in bismuth-based Z-scheme heterojunction (BBZSH) photocatalysts for the remediation of contaminated water. BBZSH photocatalysts have gained significant attention due to their enhanced photocatalytic efficiency compared to single-component bismuth-based semiconductor (BBSc) photocatalysts. The review covers the synthesis methods, efficiency-enhancing strategies, classifications of BBSc and Z-scheme heterojunctions, degradation mechanisms, and applications in degrading various pollutants such as organic dyes, antibiotics, aromatics compounds, endocrine-disrupting compounds, and volatile organic compounds. The challenges and future perspectives of BBZSH photocatalysts are also discussed. Key findings include the superior photocatalytic activity of BBZSH photocatalysts, their ability to absorb visible light, and their potential for efficient pollutant degradation. The article highlights the importance of Z-scheme heterojunctions in improving charge separation and redox capabilities, making BBZSH photocatalysts a promising solution for environmental remediation.The article reviews the recent advancements in bismuth-based Z-scheme heterojunction (BBZSH) photocatalysts for the remediation of contaminated water. BBZSH photocatalysts have gained significant attention due to their enhanced photocatalytic efficiency compared to single-component bismuth-based semiconductor (BBSc) photocatalysts. The review covers the synthesis methods, efficiency-enhancing strategies, classifications of BBSc and Z-scheme heterojunctions, degradation mechanisms, and applications in degrading various pollutants such as organic dyes, antibiotics, aromatics compounds, endocrine-disrupting compounds, and volatile organic compounds. The challenges and future perspectives of BBZSH photocatalysts are also discussed. Key findings include the superior photocatalytic activity of BBZSH photocatalysts, their ability to absorb visible light, and their potential for efficient pollutant degradation. The article highlights the importance of Z-scheme heterojunctions in improving charge separation and redox capabilities, making BBZSH photocatalysts a promising solution for environmental remediation.