Display omitted •Production of biochar produced through pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass has been narrated.•The factors influencing pyrolytic conditions and pyrolytic conversion have been discussed.•Reviewed the modification of biochar and mechanism of pollutant adsorption using biochar.•Potential positive aspects of biochar applications towards pollutant removal are also discussed. Thermochemical processing of biomass results in a producing char, a typical by-product. The char can be termed as biochar when specifically applied as a soil fertility enhancement. Biochar, when utilized efficiently, is basic for enhancing financial viability and also to maintain ecosystem. The properties of carbonized biomass rely upon raw materials (feedstock) and procedure conditions. Biochar shows an incredible potential to effectively handle water contaminants taking into consideration the wide accessibility of feedstock, suitable physical/chemical surface properties and low-cost. Pyrolysis technology for converting lignocellulosic biomass into biochar has emerged as a frontier research domain for the removal of pollutants. This review focused on production of biochar from various sources of lignocellulosic biomass (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) and its application in various fields such as agriculture, wastewater treatment process. Biochar is a significant resource however, its application require further examination of its properties and structure and techniques to alter those factors.