Carbon-based adsorbents, including graphene, graphene oxide, activated carbon/biochar, carbon nanotubes, metal-modified carbon, and fly ash, are increasingly used for removing microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) from water due to their structural properties and high adsorption efficiency. These materials have flexible surface properties that enhance their effectiveness in adsorbing MPs/NPs. The review discusses the adsorption mechanisms, behaviors, and factors influencing the removal of MPs/NPs by various carbon-based adsorbents. It highlights the importance of surface functional groups in determining adsorption efficiency and explores the potential of carbon-based materials in addressing plastic pollution. Key factors affecting adsorption include pH, metal ions, anions, and dissolved organic matter (DOM). The review also emphasizes the need for further research into the development of more effective and sustainable carbon-based adsorbents for the removal of MPs/NPs. The study concludes that while significant progress has been made, more research is needed to optimize adsorption processes and improve the efficiency of carbon-based materials in removing plastic pollutants from water.Carbon-based adsorbents, including graphene, graphene oxide, activated carbon/biochar, carbon nanotubes, metal-modified carbon, and fly ash, are increasingly used for removing microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) from water due to their structural properties and high adsorption efficiency. These materials have flexible surface properties that enhance their effectiveness in adsorbing MPs/NPs. The review discusses the adsorption mechanisms, behaviors, and factors influencing the removal of MPs/NPs by various carbon-based adsorbents. It highlights the importance of surface functional groups in determining adsorption efficiency and explores the potential of carbon-based materials in addressing plastic pollution. Key factors affecting adsorption include pH, metal ions, anions, and dissolved organic matter (DOM). The review also emphasizes the need for further research into the development of more effective and sustainable carbon-based adsorbents for the removal of MPs/NPs. The study concludes that while significant progress has been made, more research is needed to optimize adsorption processes and improve the efficiency of carbon-based materials in removing plastic pollutants from water.