The article discusses the development of environmentally friendly, fouling-resistant marine coatings. Marine biofouling, the growth of unwanted marine organisms on submerged surfaces, poses significant economic and environmental challenges for maritime industries. Traditional biocide-containing paints are being phased out due to environmental concerns and legislation, leading to a focus on non-biocidal solutions based on physico-chemical and materials properties. Advances in nanotechnology, polymer science, and biomimetic surface designs are driving the development of new coatings. The review highlights the importance of understanding the biological and molecular mechanisms behind fouling resistance, as well as the need for interdisciplinary studies that correlate coating structure, properties, and biological performance. Key strategies include creating surfaces that deter initial attachment, reducing adhesion strength, and using amphiphilic or chemically 'ambiguous' coatings. The article also discusses specific examples of novel coating technologies, such as Sharklet AF topographies, amphiphilic nanostructured coatings, and superhydrophobic surfaces, and their potential for practical application. Despite progress, there are still knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding the underlying mechanisms and optimizing coating performance under immersed conditions.The article discusses the development of environmentally friendly, fouling-resistant marine coatings. Marine biofouling, the growth of unwanted marine organisms on submerged surfaces, poses significant economic and environmental challenges for maritime industries. Traditional biocide-containing paints are being phased out due to environmental concerns and legislation, leading to a focus on non-biocidal solutions based on physico-chemical and materials properties. Advances in nanotechnology, polymer science, and biomimetic surface designs are driving the development of new coatings. The review highlights the importance of understanding the biological and molecular mechanisms behind fouling resistance, as well as the need for interdisciplinary studies that correlate coating structure, properties, and biological performance. Key strategies include creating surfaces that deter initial attachment, reducing adhesion strength, and using amphiphilic or chemically 'ambiguous' coatings. The article also discusses specific examples of novel coating technologies, such as Sharklet AF topographies, amphiphilic nanostructured coatings, and superhydrophobic surfaces, and their potential for practical application. Despite progress, there are still knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding the underlying mechanisms and optimizing coating performance under immersed conditions.